Animal Behaviour and Ecology Lab

Our top research areas include:

• Bioacoustics: we use acoustic tools to understand vocal signalling systems and factors that shape acoustic repertoires and the individuality of signals.
• Biodiversity monitoring: we combine both traditional surveys with passive approaches based on acoustic monitoring to identify specific species in recordings or classify soundscapes more generally.
• Mechanisms that shape sociality: by studying model societies such as those of Noisy Miners, we aim to determine the conditions that shape cooperation (or not) in complex animal societies using both field and laboratory-based experiments.
• Raptor ecology and behaviour: we aim to understand determinants of nest success, and the impact of landscape level patterns such as habitat fragmentation on individual raptors through to populations.
• Behavioural Ecology: all members of the lab are broadly interested in all aspects of animal behaviour and behavioural ecology research, including animal welfare.

Enquiries from prospective Honours, Masters and PhD students are always welcome. We’re keen to hear from people who want to work as part of a research team, that have a particular interest in a specific taxa, question, or might simply be interested in animal behaviour more broadly. Animal handling, data analysis, and statistical skills are always beneficial, but not essential – projects can be designed to teach you what is needed to be successful.

Please contact Professor Paul McDonald (Lab Leader) to enquire about joining ABEL.

Visit the ABEL website to keep up to date with the latest research, news and opportunities.