Extension Forester Lauren Grand hosts Dr. Jim Rivers. They discuss the marbled murrelet, a reclusive seabird that nests in old-growth forests far inland. Dr. Rivers explains the bird’s unique nesting behavior, the challenges of studying it, and recent advancements in research methods. They also touch on the bird’s dependence on both healthy marine and forest ecosystems, the difficulty of tracking their movements, and ongoing conservation efforts. The episode highlights the intersection of forest ecology, wildlife conservation, and innovative research techniques.

“The marbled murrelet is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most mysterious seabirds… it nests in mature and old-growth forests and spends much of its life at sea.”

– Dr. Jim rivers, Associate Professor of Wildlife Ecology

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Resources Mentioned

• OPB episode – Oregon Field Guide, Season 32 Episode 9 – “Marbled Murrelets”
• Oceans Unmanned
• NOAA

Favorite Tree(s)

• Sugar Maple

Interesting/Helpful Tools