Postgraduate research students

My research explores the effects of environmental stressors on the physiology and behaviour of seabirds. I am particularly interested in how emerging technologies like infrared thermography (IRT) can support wildlife conservation efforts and provide insights into physiological processes.

In my current study in the Baltic Sea I am using a combination of IRT, meteorological instrumentation, and CCTV to quantify the physiological and behavioural impacts of temperature on common guillemots. Specifically, I am exploring the thermal responses of breeding birds under varying environmental conditions, particularly the role of different microclimates within colonies, to better understand the thermoregulatory strategies of adults and their offspring throughout development, and how these may be affected by future climate change.

Stone et al. (2022) Fence management and time since pack formation influence African wild dog escapes from protected areas in South Africa. Journal for Nature Conservation, 70, 126291.

Stone et al. (2021) Plumage development and environmental factors influence surface temperature gradients and heat loss in wandering albatross chicks. Journal of Thermal Biology, 97, 102777.

• Dr Ruedi Nager
• Dr Dominic McCafferty

External supervisors

Maria Bogdanova (UKCEH)

Jonas Hentati-Sundberg (Department of Aquatic Resources, Swedish University of Agricultural Science)

Agnes Olin (Department of Aquatic Resources, Swedish University of Agricultural Science)

The Company of Biologists Travelling Fellowship 2024

Animals, Temperature, and Man (Lund, 2022): presenter

African Wild Dogs United (South Africa, 2022): presenter

South African Wildlife Management Association (South Africa, 2021): presenter

Society for Experimental Biology (Seville, 2019): presenter