Latest news with #ShilohSchulte
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Plymouth scientist among two killed in helicopter crash in Alaska
A prominent member of Plymouth's Manomet Conservation Sciences team is among two people killed in a helicopter crash last week in Northern Alaska. Shiloh Schulte was conducting conservation research at the time of the crash. He's known for his work in rebuilding endangered seabird populations along the East Coast. Schulte was also the coordinator for the American Oystercatcher Recovery Program, which helped rebuild the oystercatcher population by 45%. 'Shiloh gave his life in the service of something greater than himself,' said a spokesperson from the Manomet Conservation Sciences team, 'dedicating himself to preserving the natural world for future generations.' According to Must Read Alaska, the pilot also died in the crash. The cause remains under investigation. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists stunned by eye-catching bird's incredible comeback: 'Amazing job'
With shorebird populations dwindling significantly over the last 40 years, the stunning comeback of the American oystercatcher is not only a positive addition to our environment's health but also a beacon of hope for the future of shorebird repopulation. American oystercatcher numbers were as low as about 10,000 in 2009, but Shiloh Schulte, senior shorebird scientist at Manomet, launched population studies that have ultimately helped the species flourish. The eye-catching coastal bird, with its long red-orange bill, stunning red-yellow eyes, black head, and brown and white body, found on Atlantic and Gulf coast beaches, is crucial to the ecosystem of salt marshes and barrier beaches. The American oystercatcher's name comes from its diet of mostly shellfish, which it pries open with its powerful, pointed beak. Recognizing the direness of the shorebird's endangerment status, the American Oystercatcher Working Group and Manomet funneled $10 million into conservation efforts to protect the American oystercatcher across 10 years. These efforts include predation and disturbance management, such as limiting human interference, an approach that has previously benefited other bird species, including western snowy plovers. Manomet has also implemented habitat restoration efforts and coordinated monitoring of the birds to gather further knowledge and data to protect them. Fifteen years later, the outcome is remarkable. According to a Facebook post by Manomet, "Targeted recovery efforts over the past 15 years resulted in a 45% population rebound." Stephen Brown, vice president of science at Manomet, said, "Long-term migration studies have been crucial in highlighting the broader shorebird crisis," according to Environment + Energy Leader. With the new data and success from the oystercatcher's conservation model, other diminishing species of shorebirds have a chance to repopulate and thrive. To continue its work with American oystercatchers, Manomet, along with the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, hosted the Tybee Spring Shorebird Festival on Feb. 20 to continue raising awareness of the American oystercatcher and other shorebirds. On a Manomet Instagram post following the event, one commenter said, "Amazing job!!!" Another said, "It was a great festival!" Do you worry about air pollution in and around your home? Yes — always Yes — often Yes — sometimes No — never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Though both shorebirds and the broader group of feathered, flying vertebrates face endangerment concerns, the oystercatcher's story of resilience and prosperity shines a light on the possibilities of repopulation. Now, with nearly 45,000 American oystercatchers taking flight, the future looks bright and bird-filled. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
