METODOLOGIES


Methods

I incorporate new methodologies to improve my research such as the use of stable isotopes, GPS/accelerometer devices, Individual Based Models, state-of-the-art statistics, GIS, predictive socioeconomic-scenarios models or even initially distant tools such as those used in psychological disciplines or socio-ecological programing. All of this without forgetting to establish procedures for monitoring of endangered populations, or to dip into classical texts or natural history museums.

Field work

Some of my activities required to develop my research lines are:

Long-term monitoring endangered population Egyptian vultures

I have maintained my commitment during the last 18 years with uninterrupted long-term monitoring of the Egyptian vulture in Bardenas Reales Natural Park and Reserve of Biosphere (northern Spain), one of the most important historical areas for the species (holding > 7 territories/km2) and now under clear decline caused by the demise of the wild rabbit, poisoning, and the increase of disturbance caused by human recreational activities.

GPS-monitoring of largest avian scavengers

Since 2019 I lead a project which aims to elucidate the consequences of the arrival of griffon vultures to the island of Mallorca, and I am tagging with GPS individuals of Cinereous and griffon vultures. This is an ongoing project thanks to the collaboration of VCF and GOIB. Moreover, since 2014 when I got Juan de la Cierva-Incorporación fellowship from Spanish Ministry I have been involved in three research projects based on the study of information provided by up to 78 GPS-tagged griffon vultures mainly in Cazorla and Cádiz (Andalusia) and thanks to funds provided by Junta de Andalucía (RNM-1925) and an ECOTONE grant, and in Bardenas Reales (Navarra) thanks to funds of the local Administration.