UMA Professors to Present Research on Human Interaction & Canada Jay Behavior
AUGUSTA – University of Maine at Augusta professors Marielle Postava-Davignon and Jennifer Long will be presenting their research on the effects of human interaction on Canada jay behavior and nest predation. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, September 24th at UMA Augusta campus.
The two assistant professors of biology compared jay behavior and nest predation levels in New Hampshire and Maine, focusing on sites with little human interaction versus popular recreation areas where feeding by humans is common. They captured, tracked, and observed the birds to determine the impact of human interaction on predator behavior and breeding habits.
Canada jays, also known as gray jays, whiskey jacks, or camp robbers, are known for their curious and bold behavior around humans. Postava-Davignon, inspired by a jay attempting to steal her lunch while hiking, initiated the research project with Long to explore the influence of human feeding on jay behavior.
Through their research, the professors found that Canada jays in remote areas exhibit different behaviors compared to those near urban environments. The presentation will delve into these differences and their implications on jay behavior.
The one-hour presentation will be held at Jewett Hall on the UMA campus and via Zoom. For more information, visit uma.edu. UMA is dedicated to providing high-quality education, student support, and civic engagement to students across Maine and beyond.
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