Population Ecology of Avian communities in human modified habitats of Amazonian Peru
For a few years I have been working on species and habitat conservation efforts in Amazonian rainforest of SE Peru. My work has involved collaborating with local communities, training students in science and developing conservation education programs for local children and youth. This has been done in collaboration with local partners at Hacienda Herrera-CECCOT, and through bird conservation programs offered to volunteers and through partnerships with field education programs with other institutions.
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I have established a long-term study to monitor bird populations in areas with increasing habitat transformation in southeastern Amazonian Peru. This research is conducted in collaboration with colleague Daniel Froehlich from the USA, and Hacienda Herrera-CECCOT. In addition, the project is aiming to train new generations of avian field researchers. So far, we have sampled along a mosaic of habitats affected by human influence. We are using mist netting methods, and auditory and visual surveys to determine species diversity, composition and abundance. We area also collecting data on natural history, life history and molting patterns. Funding pending, we will continue on radio-tracking studies to assess habitat use of bird species. I usually collect data during spring and summer break, and while in the study-abroad program I lead for the UW Bothell.
