Dawn Drumtra, M.S.
Area(s) of Expertise: Ornithology, Ecology, National History Museum (Advising Area of Expertise: Biology)
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Biology, DePauw University, Greencastle, Indiana
- Master of Science in Entomology, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Doctor of Philosophy Candidate in Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Research/Special Interests
- Avian Infectious Diseases - We are conducting surveys for the prevalence of a variety of avian infectious diseases in local birds. Work on this project not only involves knowledge of birds, but also knowledge of microbial or viral surveying techniques. This is a great opportunity to learn molecular lab techniques as well as dissection skills. Contact Dr. Purvis or professor Drumtra.
- Birds of Tumbling Creek Woods - Multiple courses use Tumbling Creek Woods for outdoor class excursions. This area is comprised of a wide variety of habitat types and thus has the potential for an extensive diversity of resident and migratory avian species. The potential for avian field research is huge here – from small scale projects such as nest monitoring for a single species, seasonal avian censusing of the residential community, and use of the site during bi-annual avian migrations; to large scale projects such as landscape influences on the avian community, to avian responses to any potential habitat modifications that may occur. Strong possibility of collaborating with IESA with this type of work. Contact professor Drumtra.
- 91ÁÔÆæ Flight Strike - Like other Universities, our campus is composed of many buildings with ample windows. Unfortunately, many species of birds have difficulty navigating our human modified landscape and find themselves misinterpreting the solidness of a window. We are currently conducting research on the prevalence of avian collisions with our University’s infrastructure. Contact professor Drumtra.
- 91ÁÔÆæ Gainesville Natural History Museum - Our University is a legal repository for donated avian remains. These carcasses must be meticulously processed for long term preservation and subsequent use as teaching tools in our classes. Students who are involved in this research will learn as much or as little as they desire in regards to biological specimen processing, preservation, and management. This research is not restricted to birds. Contact professor Drumtra for birds, Dr. Diggs for plants & fungi, Dr. Lampert for arthropods, Dr. Mook for skeletons, or Dr. Bender for mammals.
- 91ÁÔÆæ Project Nest-Box Watch - We currently have nest boxes erected for 5 species of bird: Barred Owl, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern Screech Owl, Hooded Merganser, and Wood Duck. These nest boxes are just waiting for the right student to initiate an observational nest monitoring project. In addition, there are many other avian species on and near campus that readily use manufactured nest sites. For example: Great-Blue Herons, Osprey, Swallows, Prothonotary Warblers, and others. Contact professor Drumtra.
Courses Taught
- BIOL 1101/L - Biology - A Human Perspective
- BIOL 1102/L - Introduction to Ecology
- BIOL 1107K - Principles of Biology I
- BIOL 1108K – Principles of Biology II
- BIOL 1260/L - Environmental Science
- BIOL 2900 - Introduction to Biological Research
- BIOL 3500K – Ecology
- BIOL 4080K - Ornithology
- BIOL 4800 - Independent Study/Undergraduate Research