Anna Smith
University of Birmingham
Project
Hot in the city: The influence of extreme weather events on avian foraging and productivity
Supervisors
- Dr Jim Reynolds
- Dr Jon Sadler
- Dr Laura Graham
- Dr Thomas Matthews
PhD Summary
My PhD is exploring the influence of extreme weather events and anthropogenic disturbance on avian foraging and productivity in an urban-adapted species, the blackbird. My work involves fitting blackbirds with trackers to map movement, examining the physiology of the birds, understanding foraging patterns and tracking reproductive and hatching success in urban and rural dwelling populations in and around Birmingham. Data on climate will be generated alongside this to help understand the interactions of the environment and climate on a population of birds.
Previous activity
Prior to my PhD, I worked at Guide Dogs UK for over two years in the research team. There I developed a deeper understanding into canine health, reproduction and behaviour. Before working at Guide Dogs, I completed my MSci at the University of Exeter in Cornwall. My master’s research was investigating the impact of anthropogenic disturbance in rural versus urban populations of jackdaws, focusing on sleep disturbance which was indicated by nocturnal calling. My undergraduate dissertation focused on the indicators of quality in Madagascan chameleons. The data for this was collected during a two-month expedition to an un-surveyed section of forest in Madagascar where we were created a local species list for the government to enable appropriate protection to the forest.
Why did you choose doctoral research?
Some of my earliest ‘life goals’ were to become a Dr in a field of research which is important to me and where I can make a difference in the world, even if it is just a small one or by only providing the knowledge and foundations for future research. Alongside this, I have always enjoyed research from school projects in Primary School to creating an expedition to Madagascar to collect data for a University project. Being part of a long-term project and working with other experts in the fields is something which to me is incredibly fulfilling and important.
Why did you choose CENTA?
Through CENTA you are connected to a wider network of researchers and students across the different Universities which allows you to build on your known skill set and gain new skills learning from those around you.
Future plans
I hope that I can add to existing literature within my field of research and use this to help tailor my future career path within academia working in the same field. Alongside this, using the training and networking opportunities provided by CENTA I hope to in the future make a meaningful, positive, impact on wildlife.