Ornithologist Corina Newsome discusses the day-to-day realities of being a Wildlife Ecologist, including housing for grad students, birding apps, #BlackBirdersWeek, camera traps, and whether or not animals are laughing at her. She also dives into topics like seaside sparrows, wetlands, saltwater marshes, corvid behavior, and disability access in scientific fieldwork.
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Quick takeaways
Fieldwork in wildlife ecology involves studying animals in their natural habitats, assessing the impact of human activities on wildlife, and developing conservation strategies.
Fieldwork in the marsh presents several challenges and unique experiences, including dealing with biting insects, navigating through muddy terrain, and encountering unexpected surprises.
Sparrows, including the seaside sparrow, have distinct characteristics and sounds that captivate wildlife ecologists and bird enthusiasts.
Deep dives
The Fieldwork Experience
Fieldwork in wildlife ecology involves studying animals in their natural habitats, assessing the impact of human activities on wildlife, and developing conservation strategies. Wildlife ecologists spend time in the field, monitoring and collecting data on animal behavior, diet, and habitat use. They may face challenges such as dealing with biting insects, navigating through muddy marshes, and enduring harsh weather conditions. Despite the physical demands, wildlife ecologists find joy in their work, documenting interesting behaviors and discovering the intricacies of different species.
Birds in the Marsh
The seaside sparrow, a small brown and cream-colored bird, is a key focus for wildlife ecologists studying the marsh. Seaside sparrows build their nests along the creeks that cut through the marsh, which act as their highways. These elusive nests can be challenging to locate, often hidden among the marsh grass. Researchers use nest height and behavioral cues, such as the chipping sounds made by the sparrows, to pinpoint nest locations. Other notable species found in the marsh include fiddler crabs, rice rats, and various bird species, including egrets and herons.
Challenges and Thrills of Fieldwork
Fieldwork in the marsh presents several challenges and unique experiences. Researchers must contend with biting insects, particularly sand gnats, which can swarm and bite relentlessly. The marsh environment itself is physically demanding, with muddy terrain and long hours of walking and exploring. Additionally, researchers encounter unexpected surprises, such as encountering large objects washed into the marsh by tides or witnessing fascinating interactions between different bird species. Despite the difficulties, the adventure and discoveries in the marsh make fieldwork an exhilarating experience for wildlife ecologists.
Sparrow Characteristics and Bird Sounds
Sparrows, including the seaside sparrow, have distinct characteristics that set them apart from other bird species. They are known for their diet, which includes a significant amount of plant material, particularly seeds. Seaside sparrows have a yellow patch, called a supercilium, that extends above their eyes, adding a pop of color to their appearance. As for bird sounds, the wood thrush stands out for its beautiful song resembling the sound of a flute. These unique characteristics and sounds captivate wildlife ecologists and bird enthusiasts alike.
Marsh Nest Abandonment and Rainbow Babies
Nest abandonment can occur in marshes if the eggs die due to reasons like flooding. Birds can detect if the eggs are not viable and will leave the nest to start anew. This is apparent when the mother does not return to the nest for several days. Birds, like humans, can also have rainbow babies, which refers to a child born after the loss of another baby.
Birds Spreading Fires and Marsh Restoration
In certain cases, birds, such as certain raptors in Australia, intentionally spread fires as a means to flush out prey. This behavior has been observed and documented, indicating that birds can indeed be arsonists. When it comes to marshes, draining them can have negative effects on the ecosystem, including losing their natural barrier function. However, marsh restoration efforts, such as replenishing water flow and reinforcing marsh edges, can help restore and protect these valuable habitats.
Human-sucking mud holes. Beautiful birdsongs. Early mornings. Eyeball gnats. Stunning vistas. The long-awaited episode with ornithologist Corina Newsome is finally here and we talk all about the day-to-day-realities of being a Wildlife Ecologist. She dishes about working in zoos, getting her masters, housing for grad students, nest checking, birding apps, camera traps, #BlackBirdersWeek, and more. She is hilarious, informative, and dedicated to her work in avian conservation and truly has the best laugh. Also: saxophones in the bushes and whether or not animals are laughing at her.