Population Level Impacts of Bird Window Collisions
Lead research exploring how window collisions impact bird populations across North America. Model species vulnerability and evaluate mitigation strategies to inform policy and conservation actions.
AI-generated overview
Project Description
Project Overview
In North America, approximately 1 billion birds die annually from collisions with windows. Despite this high mortality, the impact on bird populations remains poorly understood. This project aims to assess how collision mortality affects different avian species at the population level.
What You Will Do
The student will lead a large-scale, collaborative study with Carleton University, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Safe Wings Ottawa. They will explore species vulnerability to collisions and use decision-science frameworks to evaluate the effectiveness of bird-safe window retrofits. The student will learn to co-develop research and enhance conservation policies.
Expected Outcomes
The project will provide valuable data supporting grassroots advocacy for safer window designs and contribute to the development of national standards on window collision mitigation.
Why This Matters
Reducing window collision mortality has significant conservation benefits, helping to preserve bird biodiversity across North America and assisting policy makers in implementing scientifically informed standards to protect avian populations.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr. Rachel Buxton is an assistant professor at Carleton University focusing on conservation biology. Her research explores human impacts on wildlife, including noise pollution and its ecological effects. She applies sensory ecology to understand and mitigate these impacts and has significant scholarly influence with over 3900 citations and an h-index of 30.