Interests and expertise
I am a fourth-year Biology (MBiol) student at the University of Oxford, completing my Master’s research under the supervision of Dr Daniel Hending. My project focuses on assessing how forest fragmentation affects nocturnal lemur populations in Sahamalaza-Iles Radama National Park, Madagascar, using passive acoustic monitoring (PAM). This approach offers a novel way to track threatened species in dense and fragmented habitats where traditional survey methods are limited. By comparing acoustic data with transect surveys, my research aims to evaluate the reliability of PAM for estimating population densities of three nocturnal lemur species and its wider applicability to primate conservation.
Background
During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in conservation biology, animal behaviour, and the use of emerging technologies for wildlife monitoring. I have taken part in several international field projects, gaining practical experience across a range of ecosystems. In Borneo, I conducted research on how road networks affect the dispersal of Lepidoptera within tropical forests, examining the role of habitat fragmentation in shaping invertebrate movement. I later joined biodiversity surveys in Honduras, collecting data on bats, birds, and amphibians across diverse habitats to inform local conservation efforts. More recently, I worked in Madagascar monitoring bat populations using a combination of passive acoustic monitoring and mist-netting techniques. These experiences have strengthened my passion for field-based conservation and fostered my interest in applying bioacoustic methods to study cryptic species. Going forward, I hope to continue developing innovative approaches that combine ecological data, technology, and fieldwork to better understand and protect biodiversity in tropical ecosystems.