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    In 2014, New Jersey reused 7,000 cubic yards of dredged sand at Ring Island; the new nesting ground was later used by 4 threatened or at-risk shorebird species

    New Jersey has implemented an innovative project to support nesting birds facing habitat loss due to rising sea levels. Sand dredged from waterways was used to raise the ground on Ring Island for bird nesting. Species such as black skimmers and least terns have begun to return to these created habitats after several years. Ongoing maintenance is required to ensure these habitats remain suitable for the birds.

    In 1851, Brooklyn released 100 house sparrows from England; 175 years later, the birds are found across nearly all of North America

    House Sparrows, introduced to North America during the mid-1800s, have rapidly become a prevalent part of the continent's avian scene. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, often settling in structures created by humans. While their populations have flourished, their competitive nature poses a challenge to native species for nesting access, making their presence a regular sight in both urban and rural settings.

    In 1890, a pharmacist released 80 birds in New York’s Central Park to honour Shakespeare; 136 years later, their descendants number about 93 million across North America

    In 1890, eighty European Starlings were introduced to Central Park, leading to a population explosion across North America. Over the span of just 130 years, these birds have shown remarkable local adaptability, as indicated by genetic studies. Although their numbers have faced a decline, the evolutionary insights gained from their rapid success present a significant opportunity for understanding the foundations of biodiversity.

    In 2021, Berlin teams studied 166 naked mole-rats and found they recognised colony-specific vocal dialects; cross-fostered pups learned the dialect of their new colony

    Naked mole-rats possess distinct vocal dialects learned from their colony members. Researchers found these animals respond more to their own colony's chirps. Cross-fostered pups adopted the dialect of their new colony within months. Colony dialect consistency decreased significantly after the queen's death. This vocal learning places naked mole-rats among a select group of mammals.

    When a tropical cyclone hit Florida’s Gulf coast in July 2026, sea turtles weren’t the only victims: The world’s smallest tern was raising young on Pensacola beach when seawater inundated its nesting grounds

    During the nesting season, coastal birds like Least Terns and Black Skimmers are at high risk from tropical cyclones. These birds nest directly on sandy shores, making their eggs and chicks particularly vulnerable to storm surges that can flood breeding sites. The coinciding of nesting and hurricane seasons, as seen with storm Bertha in July 2026, reveals the dire threats these seabirds face.

    ET Startup Awards 2026: Nominees for Top Innovator

    The award will recognise innovations that launch a business or give it a big boost. It should be an original idea that is core to the business or one that provides the differentiation that sets it apart from the competition.

    The Economic Times
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