This thesis covers the topic of ‘Optimal management of equine pastures’. From the equine sector, a request was made for more knowledge on the topic of pasture management. The main problem with gaining information on this topic is not the lack of existing knowledge, but the knowledge being spread over …

With climate change and urban development, water systems are changing faster than ever. Currently, the ecological status of water systems is still judged based on single point measurements, without taking into account the spatial and temporal variability of water quality and ecology. There is a need …

Renewing agricultural grasslands for improved yields and forage quality generally involves eliminating standing vegetation with herbicides, ploughing and reseeding. However, grassland renewal may negatively affect soil quality and related ecosystem services. On clay soil in the north of the Netherlands, …

In 1990, livestock grazing was introduced in Meijendel, a 1800 ha lime-rich coastal dune area, at a density of 0.06–0.07 LLU.ha-1.year−1 (1:12–18 ha) to counteract encroachment of tall grasses and shrubland on dune grassland and increase the bare sand area. Monitoring was based on four digital orthophotos …

Poaching for ivory has led to massive population declines of African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana). To prioritize anti-poaching efforts, elephant poaching hotspot maps were created. However, these might be biased because they are not corrected for the detection probability of elephant carcasses. …

Mexican oregano is a non-timber forest product harvested in natural vegetation and represents an important source of income for rural families. Recent reports have highlighted decreases in natural populations caused by increased harvest intensity. Oregano leaf harvesting is a complex problem, involving …

Urban water bodies like ponds or canals are commonly assumed to provide effective cooling in hot periods. Some of the evidence that feeds this assertion is based on remote sensing observations at relatively large scales. Such observations generally reveal reduced surface temperatures of water bodies …

During times of high activity by predators and competitors, herbivores may be forced to forage in patches of low‐quality food. However, the relative importance in determining where and what herbivores forage still remains unclear, especially for small‐ and intermediate‐sized herbivores. Our objective …

De Noordwaard is a recently established highwater flow area located near the Brabantse Biesbosch. In this area, dykes have been adapted and creeks have been dug, some of which are connected to the Hollands Diep and are subject to tidal influence. A large part of theagricultural land has been transformed …

The moose (Alces alces) shows partial migration in Scandinavia. During the seasons access to forage sources differs, where in winter this is more limited, due to e.g. snow cover. In summer various sources are available. The age class of the forest roughly reflects the forage availability for the moose. …