Behavioural Ecology of subantarctic birds

The foundation of all animal activity is behaviour, which is constantly influenced by cues and clues from their surroundings. In order to fulfil their innate goals to live, reproduce, and maximise their fitness, individuals engage in interactions with other species, conspecifics, and environmental factors. Our project combines the fields of animal behaviour, sensory ecology, and cognition with the goal of identifying the cues and clues that affect the behaviour of seabirds. Our research primarily focuses on two chapters: mate choice and scavenger/predator bird cognitive abilities. We aim to study the complex processes of mate choice in petrels and penguins, and specifically the information they broadcast to help them make their decision, and why birds with similar ecological constraints show different strategies (lifelong faithful to the mate for petrels, and high divorce rate between years in king penguins). We won’t ignore any sensory avenue, whether it comes to vocal, chemical, or visual communication. We are also interested in learning more about the cognitive abilities of scavengers and predatory birds, which feed on the colonies of penguins and petrels. Our goals are to present empirical evidence on skuas’ social cognition (e.g., can they learn from their conspecifics? From humans?). Our fundamental research project will advance our understanding of the general mechanisms governing the behaviour, survival, and reproduction of the species under study. A good understanding of the ecology, behaviour, and interactions of the species we wish to protect is essential for correct management in order to anticipate their adaptability to changing environmental conditions and reduce biodiversity loss.