We engage in hands-on ecological fieldwork to explore pressing wildlife and plant conservation challenges. Our students dive into big questions surrounding the drivers of animal movement, distribution, and abundance patterns. Through rigorous investigation, we aim to uncover how these processes inform broader conservation efforts.

In addition to tackling large-scale questions, we focus on long-term, local observational studies. These help combat the dangers of shifting baseline syndrome—the gradual acceptance of environmental degradation as “normal.” By maintaining continuous ecological records, we aim to protect biodiversity for future generations and develop effective, science-based conservation strategies.

Current Projects:

Orphaned & Wild Elephants in Zambia	Wildlife & Forest Management in Oaxaca

 

Long-term Herpetofauna Study in the Duke Forest	Bird Window Collisions at Duke University

 

Biotic Surveys in the Duke Forest	Defaunation in Ivindo National Park, Gabon