Touching Extinction - Biological Achilles' Heels and the Survival of Big, Fierce Animals
Explore the challenges faced by large, fierce animals in their struggle for survival in this 2019 Bidder Lecture given by Terrie M. Williams at SEBAMM Seville. Delve into the evolutionary designs of marine mammals, examining their unique adaptations for aquatic living and the metabolic demands of swimming locomotion. Discover how advanced tracking technologies like GPS collars and accelerometers provide insights into animal behavior and physiology. Investigate the specific vulnerabilities of polar bears, sea otters, and narwhals, considering the impacts of climate change, oil spills, and ocean noise pollution on these species. Learn about the paradoxical escape responses in deep-diving mammals and the potential consequences of human activities on their survival. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the biological "Achilles' heels" that put these magnificent creatures at risk of extinction and the importance of conservation efforts to protect them.