Innovative Wildlife Research in a Changing World
Through our research programs, we work to better understand ecological health through the lens of wildlife. BRI incorporates both traditional and leading-edge approaches toward solving ecological issues. Results of our scientific research provide decision makers with the data necessary to make informed policy decisions that conserve resources and protect our environment.
Taxonomic Groups
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BRI taxa programs help us to understand ecological health through the lens of wildlife.
Ecosystems and Geographic Regions
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We work across the globe to conduct research that helps us understand the intricacies of the Earth’s ecosystems. We share what we learn with those charged with protecting and managing our natural resources.
Ecological Issues
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Through the programs listed below, BRI’s research capabilities have grown in response to pressing ecological issues (chemical, biological, and physical):
- Climate Change Program
- Mercury Studies
- Wildlife Health Program
- Wildlife and Renewable Energy Program
Climate Effect Studies
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Our new Climate Change Program combines the resources of other BRI programs to conduct studies that cross species lines and geographic boundaries. The strength of our collective work contributes to the ongoing dialogue about climate change and helps to inform the actions that are needed to address it.
Environmental Contaminants Monitoring
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BRI is a world leader in collecting, analyzing, and publishing data on the transport and fate of mercury and lead in ecosystems. Our expertise also includes investigations of historical or legacy contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
Movement and Tracking Studies
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Tracking offers insight into wildlife movements and habitat use. We learn valuable information about the challenges on breeding and wintering grounds and along migration routes. BRI tracks birds, bats, and small mammals–from capture and the application of transmitters through collection and analysis of data. These data help inform decision makers.
Inventory and Population Studies
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BRI biologists are highly skilled in the use of a broad range of methods to survey and monitor wildlife. With decades of experience, we also know that the implementation of successful surveys and monitoring projects depend on clear research objectives that are based on a thorough understanding of the issues and exactly how data will be used to inform decision making and ecosystem management.
Wildlife Health Studies
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Environment, wildlife, and human health are interconnected and intimately influence each other. Wildlife is thought to be responsible for many of the emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) around the world. EIDs, introduced diseases, climate change, and pollution continue to impact conservation, public health, and economies. At a time of unprecedented environmental change, safeguarding the health of wildlife is increasingly important.
Photo Credits: Released bat © BRI-Jonathan Fiely; Wetland landscape © BRI-Kevin Regan; Offshore wind turbines courtesy Nysted_Havmøllepark; Climate change © shutterstock; Sampling songbird © BRI-staff; Tagging peregrine © Karen Aigner; Aerial survey © BRI-Chris DeSorbo; Checking wing © BRI-Evan Adams. Sidebar photos: Gray Catbird © BRI-Molly Taylor; Indiana bat © BRI-Caroline Byrne; Sabine Gull © Carsten Egevang ARC-PIC