Dr Melanie Massaro
Position
Behavioural Ecology and Conservation Biology
Qualifications
BSc (1996) Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University in Greifswald, Germany
MSc (2000) Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada
PhD (2004) University of Otago, New Zealand
Room
Z 623
Contact Details
Phone: +64-3-364-2987 ext. 7004
Fax: +64 3 364 2590
Email: melanie.massaro@canterbury.ac.nz
Postal address: School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand
Research
My primary research interest is to understand the potential of adaptive behavioural plasticity in animal species under new environmental conditions. The following are my current research projects:
A. Evolutionary changes in life history traits of New Zealand birds since the introduction of predatory mammals
B. Plasticity in foraging behaviour of Adélie penguins: are they able to cope with climate-induced changes to the marine environment.
Details here
Publications
Science Communication
The Black Robin Blog is part of a science communication project that runs in conjunction with my current research on native New Zealand songbirds. This blog as well as the virtual field trip “Ancient New Zealand: Chatham Islands” hosted by the LEARNZ website give primary and secondary school students a chance to visit a remote wildlife sanctuary and experience life as a scientist. This science communication project has been funded by the Canterbury Community Trust and the Brian Mason Scientific and Technical Trust.