October Public Talk: Reproduction in Hybrid Gulls

Reproductive success of gulls in a hybrid zone
Libby Megna, PhD student at UWYO

Glaucous-winged Gulls (Larus glaucescens) and Western Gulls (L. occidentalis) hybridize extensively where their ranges overlap along the coasts of Washington and Oregon, producing a continuum of phenotypic intergrades between the two parental species. This zone typically is considered an example of geographically bounded hybrid superiority, but studies have not consistently supported this model. I'll talk about mating patterns and hatching success of these gulls, and how such data help us to understand how this hybrid zone works.

When: Wednesday, Oct. 30
6:30pm Bird Chat and refreshments in the lobby
7:00pm Presentation in the auditorium

Where: UW Berry Biodiversity Center, 10th St. & Lewis St. (free parking after 5pm)

Field Trip Oct 12th to Plains Lakes

We will be heading out tomorrow morning to the Plains Lakes. Hutton Lakes NWR is closed due to the government shutdown. Meet at Night Heron Books at 8am. We will carpool and be back in Laramie at about noon. If you can't join us for the entire morning, please drive separately. Dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks. All ages and abilities welcome.

Swifts in Migration

I just came across this blog post today by Ed Young about swifts staying on the wing for 200 days straight. Remarkable.

Oct 5 Field Trip Canceled

Due to inclement weather, the field trip for Saturday, Oct 5th, to Hutton Lakes has been canceled. We will reschedule for next Saturday, weather permitting.