photos left to right: 1) a person looks through binoculars in the mountains, 2) a Lazuli Bunting on a branch, 3) female MacGillivray's Warbler

UM Bird Ecology Lab (UMBEL)

Applied Research

We conduct applied research and monitoring of Montana’s birds throughout their annual cycle to fill key gaps in our understanding of bird populations, with the goal of providing sound science to inform conservation. Our research investigates how land management actions, habitat conditions, and other environmental factors influence bird populations. We work across diverse habitats in Montana to assess bird response to a range of practices, from forest thinning and conifer removal, to prescribed fire and stream restoration.

Areas of Research

Female Spotted Towhee perched in a bush with food in her mouth

Ecological Monitoring

We partner with government agencies, nonprofits, and private land owners to improve management practices and track the success of restoration efforts using birds as barometers of ecosystem conditions.
A woman stands looking through a scope toward a large body of water.

Population Monitoring

Our long-term monitoring programs track bird populations over time, providing important insights into status and trends in a rapidly changing world.
A Swainson's Thrush is held to show the transmitter tag applied to its back.

Migration

We conduct migratory research on specific bird species using Motus and other tracking technologies, as well as through our fall banding operations.