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RESEARCH INTERESTS
My research interest has been focused on ecology and conservation of
long-lived vertebrates, mainly raptors (eagles and vultures). Using
this taxonomic group as study model, I worked on habitat selection
models, demographic components, population modelling, regulation processes,
and intra and interspecific competition. At this moment, although I
continue with this interesting line of research, I’m very excited with
the study of biological invasions and causes promoting this worldwide
phenomenon. For this last purpose, I’m using as study models current
avian invaders in Spain and urban avian invaders in Argentina.
Specific research interests include:
Exotic species and biological invasions. Potential
indicators of invasiveness by birds currently retained as pets, deepening
on potential causes linked to these cues (changes in anti-predatory
behaviour and immunity response). Consequences of exotic species introduction
on native species populations (niche overlap, parasites and emergent
diseases, competition, habitat selection). Invasions of urban areas
by birds: factors associated to behavioural flexibility; physiological
(stress hormones) and behavioural (personalities) mechanisms underlying
biological invasions (in collaboration with Dra. Sonia Cabezas and
Dr. Gary Bortolotti, University of Saskatchewan, Canada); cost and
benefits of urban living.
Population and community ecology. Key demographic
components (survival, productivity, age of first breeding, dispersal,
etc) of endangered species populations. Regulation and limitation processes.
Intra and interspecific competition. Individual components and population
consequences associated to changes in ecological constraints (food,
human acivities, fire).
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