In August 2017, I received my Ph.D. in Biology at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas.
I used forest songbirds to explore questions relating to how females select nest sites in the face of conflicting information. For example, how a female balances information about predation risk vs. food availability vs. nest substrate availability. Further, could a female "update" her information to select a better nest site after her first nest cycle concludes? I was most interested in examining these questions within the context of a single breeding season, a topic which has not yet been well-explored. Publications are currently in preparation.
While I used a deciduous forest songbird, the Veery (Catharus fucescens) as my focal species, I have broad experience working in a variety of ecosystems throughout the American East and South. I also have an interest in urban ecology, landscape ecology, and how invasive species affect our native ecosystems.
I grew up in urban Florida, and have a deep fondness for my home state's unique ecosystems and the special challenges they face.
But my path led to Texas for a time, and I gained an appreciation for the stark beauty of its equally unique semi-arid and arid landscapes and wildlife.
I recently moved to the Raleigh-Durham ("Research Triangle") region of North Carolina, and am discovering that while it is superficially similar to other places in the East with which I am already familiar, there are plenty of special places to explore.
Where will my career take me next? Who knows? But I look forward to the adventure!
While I used a deciduous forest songbird, the Veery (Catharus fucescens) as my focal species, I have broad experience working in a variety of ecosystems throughout the American East and South. I also have an interest in urban ecology, landscape ecology, and how invasive species affect our native ecosystems.
I grew up in urban Florida, and have a deep fondness for my home state's unique ecosystems and the special challenges they face.
But my path led to Texas for a time, and I gained an appreciation for the stark beauty of its equally unique semi-arid and arid landscapes and wildlife.
I recently moved to the Raleigh-Durham ("Research Triangle") region of North Carolina, and am discovering that while it is superficially similar to other places in the East with which I am already familiar, there are plenty of special places to explore.
Where will my career take me next? Who knows? But I look forward to the adventure!