UMaine Bird Biologist’s Research Noted

UMaine bird biologist Brian Olsen contributed to a recently published paper about beak size in birds that was mentioned on the Discovery Channel website. The paper, which appeared in the journal Ecography, noted that the beak size of salt marsh sparrows in North America varied drastically depending on the average summer temperature. The study suggests beak tissue may be active in order to transfer heat and keep a bird cool in a harsh environment. The study was done by researchers at the Smithsonian. Olsen holds a research associate position with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute.

Contact: Jessica Bloch, 207-581-3777