Conservation In Action
We have explored novel phylogenetically- based approaches to identifying which vertebrate species are more prone to extinction
There is a long list of species that are currently considered threatened or endangered, and the US spends billions of dollars every year in an effort to prevent these species from succumbing to extinction. The question that conservation scientists face is how to recover populations of these species in an effective and efficient manner. A large part of our research is centered on answering this question, and the related question of how to prioritize our conservation dollar. We have explored novel phylogenetically-based approaches to identifying which vertebrate species are more prone to extinction in the US, and which of the world's freshwater fish are prone to extinction. In addition, we contributed to the understanding of the ecology of two federally endangered Hawaiian Honeycreepers, the 'Akiapola'au and the Maui Parrotbill. In New Jersey, we are conducting research on the demography of the threatened American Oystercatcher, and on halting the drastic decline of grassland-nesting songbirds.
Our most ambitious research program is the recovery of the Cape Sable seaside sparrow. This Federally endangered species is endemic (mostly) to Everglades National Park. Given the proposed multi-billion dollar restoration of water flows to the Everglades, and recent dramatic declines in sparrow populations, we have devoted considerable effort to linking sparrow demography to changes in water management. Currently, we are nearing the completion of a five-year study of the effects of fire on sparrow demography and behavior.
