Research

Our approach: Comparative avian biology using specimens

Our long term goal is to build a data-rich specimen collection to facilitate studies of avian biodiversity across time and space. Our science is repeatable, extendable, and open. We achieve this by archiving research materials in public museum collections with online specimen data and reciprocal links to online data archives and peer-reviewed publications.

Some of our favorite subjects within ornithology:

  • Comparative respiratory physiology across elevational gradients

  • Evolutionary genetics of the avian hemoglobin protein

  • Avian genome evolution

  • High-altitude adaptations in hummingbirds

  • Coevolution of birds and malaria parasites

  • Biogeography of Andean birds

  • Migration ecology

  • Flight behavior, systematics, and vocalizations of cranes (family Gruidae)

  • Climate change effects on birds

To learn more about Witt's interests, see his ResearchGate page, check out his popular writings on The Ornithology Blog, or browse his Publications.

Banner photo: Jessie Williamson