Research Projects

The main questions guiding my research are: How do animals interact with their environment under anthropogenic disturbances? and How can management interventions support the persistence of species at risk?

To address these questions, I have developed a long-term research program using the endangered Lear's macaw as a model species. My work takes a multidisciplinary approach to investigate its biology and behavior, explore strategies for its management through reintroduction, and advance proposals for the mitigation of human–wildlife conflicts.

Animal Biology

Breeding Biology

Using rappeling techniques to access nests and long-term monitoring to assess breeding biology data, together with nvironmental variables that impact yearly nestling survival and breeding success.

Parenting relationships

Using genetic data to verify the relationships within nestlings in the same brood and between netlings in the same nest-cavity within years.

Diet

Using Stable Isotopes and DNA matabarcoding, and Biologgers (GPS) to find the compontents (plant species) of the diet and feeding areas requirements.

Movement Patters

Using biologgers and external markers to describe flight behavior, monitor dispersal, track post-release survival, assess habitat use, and provide insights to inform mitigation strategies for overcoming human–wildlife conflicts.

Reintroductions

Release and Monitoring

Using a integrated conservation program to promote experimental releases and development of parrot monitoring techniques for the population restoration.

Demography

Using long-term census data from breeding to non-breeding population, and viability analysis to address population dynamics and demography trends over time

Coletive Behaviour and Animal Cultural Knowledge

Using ethograms to investigate social relationships and personality traits that enhance survival after release.

Upcoming project!

Vocal learning and its hole in Reintroductions

Using sonograms to assess how dialects and vocal learning influence the social integration of release candidates and their survival in parrot reintroductions.

Human-Wildlife Coexistence and Mitigation of Conflicts

Local People Cultural Knowlodge

Using semi-structured interviews to assess local villagers knowledge about local birds and associated anthropogenic threats, focussing on human–wildlife conflicts.

Environmental Education

Implementing “Teacher Training Courses” in local schools to promote the multiplication of knowledge and raise awareness about nature conservation.

Anthropogenic Threats Management

Investigating anthropogenic impacts that limit the growth and expansion of wild populations, while proposing effective management strategies.

Mitigation of Conflicts

Sharing knowledge with companies and environmental agencies, and contributing to the development of mitigation strategies to reduce threats.

Applied Zoology and Animal Conservation Research

Our research team uses zoological knowledge to bridge theory and practice, tackling the biodiversity crisis and protecting wildlife from anthropogenic threats. Through research and fieldwork, we monitor species, inform conservation policies, and plan the rehabilitation and reintroduction of endangered populations, contributing to thriving ecosystems. Conservation is inherently multi-, inter-, and transdisciplinary, and I believe that an integrative approach in zoology is key to effective solutions.

I welcome students, collaborators, and volunteers to join our efforts—together we can make a tangible impact on wildlife conservation and foster a connection between people and nature.