Merlin Population Genetics Research

During the 2009 season, the Project cooperated with Dr. Joshua Hull on a molecular genetic investigation of morphological and genetic differentiation among the three subspecies of Merlin (Falco columbarius) to better understand evolutionary relationships. The research project will test whether there is a genetic east-west population division in North America and whether the subspecies are genetically distinct. For more information on Dr Hull and related projects, click here. 

Sharp-shinned Hawk Migration Counts 

Were the declines in the Sharp-shinned hawk migration counts of the mid-80's related to the Spruce Budworm population? To read Nicholas Bolgiano's paper on this  click here.

Mercury levels in raptors

The Biodiversity Research Institute collected samples from birds of prey at Cape May during the 2008 and 2009 seasons. Data collected from this effort will serve to evaluate background mercury levels in many raptor species. To read more about this project click here 

Science and Research Committee

The Science and Research Committee was established to provide review of the project’s ongoing data gathering and banding efforts and to search out new initiatives to recommend to the Board. The group is charged with the responsibility of monitoring environmental and management issues affecting the east coast migration of North American raptors and acts as liaison with local officials and interests groups on a broad range of issues of mutual interest. The committee is especially interested in developing relationships with researchers who would benefit from hands-on access to migrating raptors.

Interested individuals can contact us at cmrbp@comcast.net.

The following individuals presently serve on the committee:

Kathleen E. Clark, Principal Nongame Zoologist with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Nongame Species. 

Paul Engman, Vice President for the Cape May Raptor Banding Project.

Dan James, Wildlife Biologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Status and Trends Program team. 

Jim Malone, Mercersburg Academy in Pennsylvania. 

Brian W. Smith, Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture Coordinator