Conservation Science
Protecting nature is what we do. Science shows us how. We tell the stories behind Nature Conservancy science — from the field to the research lab, and everywhere in between.
From the Field
We get our boots dirty. Join us as we cover science in action, from stormwater drains to the Indonesian rainforest..
Fire, Grazing and Prairie Renewal: How Burn Frequency Shapes Tallgrass Ecosystems
Healthy tallgrass prairies need fire, but new science shows there is no one-size-fits all burn regime.
7 of the World’s Little-Known Fish Migrations
Let’s take a look at some fascinating, overlooked freshwater fish migrations.
On the Trail of Snow Leopards, from Camera Traps to Habitat Maps
How modern technology and local communities are charting a path for snow leopards in Mongolia.
Cool Facts About the Pronghorn and Its Migration
The world’s second-fastest land animal sheds its horns. And it’s not an antelope.
Dark Skies & Rare Insects: A West Texas Preserve Becomes a Hotbed for Research
TNC’s Davis Mountains Preserve is an international dark sky reserve, but it’s also a hotspot for ecological research, from rare insects to bats.
Going Ghostbusters on Peatlands
Conservationists take the first steps towards restoring some Minnesota peatlands.
Science for Strategy
Science is strategy. Learn from 600 scientists & our partners researching the best way to protect nature.
8 of the World’s Little-Known Wildlife Migrations
Learn about 8 of the animal world’s little-known migrations, from zooplankton to mole salamanders to colorful Australian parrots in peril.
For Climate Adaptation, Forests Offer More Than Carbon Storage
New research finds that forests play a far greater role in protecting people from climate change than previously recognized.
Reading the Tree Rings
By reading tree rings, scientists can see evidence of rainy years, periods of drought, bug infestations, forest fires and even volcanic eruptions.
Catching Sharks for Science
On Long Beach Island, volunteer anglers help researchers uncover the hidden journeys of sharks in threatened salt marsh ecosystems.
How Extreme Winter Weather Can Affect Wildlife
How extreme winter weather can challenge many species, from opossums to manatees to Carolina wrens. What are you seeing in your neighborhood?
Seeing the Salt Marsh for the Sharks
Shark tagging in New Jersey’s salt marshes reveals migration patterns and shows how restoring wetlands strengthens vulnerable coasts.
Science Brief
Your hub for the latest peer-reviewed research powering conservation action.
Archives
Case Study: Sustainable Sea Cucumber Fisheries Offer Both Rewards & Challenges
Sustainable fisheries can be a win-win solutions for both conservation and local communities, especially in the Indo-Pacific. But establishing them comes with unique challenges.
Greener Cities, Cleaner Air: How Urban Design Can Help Save Native Birds
Urban greening and pollution reduction restore bird habitats. This research shows how conservation transforms cities for people and nature.
Grazing Lands as Climate Solutions: Key Practices for Carbon and Biodiversity
Study finds wetland restoration, pasture planting, and adjusted grazing can boost soil carbon and cut emissions—but more research is needed for lasting impact.
Mangroves Slash Hurricane Damage in Florida by Billions
In Collier County alone, mangroves cut annual losses by $67M and prevented $4B in damages during Hurricane Ian.
Solar’s Hidden Footprint: Why Accurate Land Data Matters for Conservation
New research reveals solar datasets underestimate land use by up to 34%, masking habitat loss in natural areas.
Forest Carbon Projects May Help More Than We Thought—New Study Finds Leakage Often Overestimated
New findings challenge current carbon market accounting practices and advocate for more nuanced, carbon-specific leakage estimates to ensure integrity and unlock greater investment in Climate Smart Forestry as a natural climate solution.
