Restoration ecology in agricultural landscapes
(In collaboration with Prof Andrew Bennett, Deakin University and Dr Jim Radford, Bush Heritage/Deakin University)
The biodiversity benefits of revegetation and restoration in agricultural systems are poorly known. Our research takes a ‘whole landscapes’ approach and seeks to provide insights into land-use change and associated biodiversity change in these systems. By working with landscapes our research outcomes are relevant at a variety of scales (i.e. patches, whole farm, multi-farm and bioregional scales).
   
Ecology, conservation biology and management of Australian birds
Research in this area has focused on a) the social behaviour and breeding ecology of honeyeaters and b) the conservation biology and management of a suite of threatened birds. In particular I have focused on a suite of birds that occupy semi-arid mallee environments (i.e. Black-eared Miner, Red-lored Whistler, Mallee Emu-wren). The impacts of climate change are likely to prove dire as many of these species suppress breeding activity in poor/below average rainfall years. Devising management strategies that address this and related conservation issues is a key objective.
   
Avian pathogens and bird migration in Torres Strait
(In collaboration with Dr John Ewen, Institute of Zoology, London)
This research focusses on community level patterns of transmission, prevalence and virulence of avian parasites, in particular avian malaria. Recent sampling has focussed on an important migratory pathway in northern Australia; the islands of the Torres Strait, with additional work in New Zealand systems.
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