Hastings Natural History Reservation

24 May, 01 PM - 07 Jun, 05 AM

The Hispaniolan Woodpecker (HIWO), Melanerpes striatus, is a highly social, island endemic species that frequently breeds in colonies, ranging from two to 26 nesting pairs in a single tree, or as singly nesting pairs. HIWO are heavily parasitized by a large nematode species, Monopetalonema hispaniola, which potentially represents a major source of HIWO mortality and a factor limiting colonial group-living. I plan to investigate: (a) basic natural history of HIWO (e.g., social system and kinship structures of colonies, genetic mating system, identity of helpers, etc.), (b) effects of nematodes on HIWO survivorship and reproductive success, (c) correlations between colony size and/or density with nematode prevalence, and, eventually, (d) effects of nematode on colony stability and individual bird behavior through experimental manipulation of parasite load. I plan to first travel to the Hastings Reservation to observe and learn methods used by my advisor, Walter Koenig, and his post-doc, Eric Walters, for studying HIWO?s congener, the Acorn Woodpecker, Melanerpes formicivorus.

Visit #25060 @Hastings Natural History Reservation

Approved

Under Project # 23679 | Research

Learning the intricacies of woodpecker research field methodology

graduate_student - Cornell University

Reservation Members(s)

Joshua LaPergola May 24 - Jun 7, 2011 (15 days)

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Ranch House 1 May 24 - Jun 7, 2011