Victor Bandeira, from CESAM/DBIO, was a guest on the Science Cast podcast, where he shared different aspects of his work in ecology, conservation, and the communication of Portugal’s natural heritage. During the conversation, he highlighted his research dedicated to the Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon), a species on which he has carried out in-depth studies, including work on its distribution in Portugal and several aspects of its ecology and biology. Victor Bandeira is also co-author of the chapter on the Egyptian mongoose in the Red Book of the Mammals of Mainland Portugal and is part of the international team responsible for assessing the species for the IUCN European Red List.
In addition to his research, Victor Bandeira plays an important role in science communication and environmental education. He is co-author of several BioRia fauna guides, including the Mammal Guide and the more recent BioRia Amphibians and Reptiles Guide, released in 2024. This publication aims to facilitate species identification in the region and contribute to reducing stigmas associated with amphibians and reptiles.
Another highlight of his recent work is the coordination of the first National Census of Free-Roaming Animals, whose results were released in 2024. The study, carried out in collaboration with ICNF and funded by the Environmental Fund, estimated the presence of more than 930,000 free-roaming animals in mainland Portugal, including over 830,000 cats and more than 100,000 dogs. In addition to population estimates, Victor Bandeira and the team analysed public attitudes and perceptions regarding responsible pet ownership, as well as the potential impacts of free-roaming animals on wildlife, contributing to informing national policies and strategies.
With his participation in Science Cast, Victor Bandeira reinforces the essential role of biologists in building bridges between science and society, promoting awareness of Portuguese biodiversity and supporting informed decision-making for nature conservation.
Watch the full interview here: Science Cast – Victor Bandeira