Team Veery

What is Team Veery?

We have been studying the ecology and behavior of primarily the Veery (Catharus fuscescens) and Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla) at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies since 1998. Wood Thursh (Hylocichla mustelina), Worm-eating Warbler (Helmitheros vermiorum), Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), and Louisiana Waterthrush (Parkesia motacilla) are also common, and we have studied these as well throughout the years. Our past research has focused on the relationships between acorns, rodent populations, and nest survival and the population dynamics of ground-nesting birds. More recently, we have been experimentally manipulating sources of public information to determine information use and breeding habitat selection in Veeries and Ovenbirds. Our methods are a combination of nest monitoring, mistnetting and color-banding, radiotelemetry, and filming behavior at the nest, and recording songs and calls (Veery only).

Team Veery refers to our crews, past and present. Each year I assemble a new Team Veery composed of myself, graduate students, seasonal crew members, and REU students (Research Experiences for Undergraduates). Fieldwork begins in the first week of May and continues into early August. If you are interested in applying for a position or for more information write me an email kenneth.schmdit@ttu.edu after Dec 1st to inquire about openings.