Research and Field Study

Research and field studies work synergistically with the Center’s medical and educational programs to support the protection of wild bird populations and their critical habitat areas. The Center has led and participated in groundbreaking scientific research including avian genetics, environmental toxins, and an ongoing study of endangered and threatened species in South Carolina such as the Swallow-tailed kite. The Center’s work is well established in connection with environmental threats such as the emergence of avian vacuolar myelinopathy (AVM) among eagles and other birds, and mortality resulting from under-regulated landfill substances. A “citizen science” approach to a number of initiatives raises public awareness of vital ecological issues and encourages the public to become active contributors to wildlife conservation.