Despite frequent media references about the mass poisoning of vultures, this study shows that small but frequent poisoning events may be even worse. Using both mathematical and computer simulation approaches we show that a chain of small poisoning events is more likely to extirpate a newly established colony than a few massive ones with the same overall mortality. Survival also depends critically on the initial population size. These results are of great relevance for restocking initiatives.

Forest–steppe habitats have contrasting canopy structure with strong influence on the spatio-temporal variability of ecosystem functions. In our study, environmental and functional variables were evaluated in this transition zone. We found that topography and vegetation structure have co-varying effects on abiotic–biotic factors. Our observations are valuable for assessing the dynamics of functional and driving variables in this natural transition zone of the temperate vegetation.

Understanding the carbon cycle is critical for designing effective policies to mitigate climate change. Herein, I synthesized the state of knowledge of the carbon cycle in tropical upland ecosystems. From the 135 documents found in databases, estimations of carbon stocks comprised three-fourths of the total studies, while the remaining fraction focused on carbon fluxes. It is necessary to obtain information on the main carbon fluxes and integrate it into climate change mitigation plans.