Some of the Leberg Lab's ongoing Research Projects  | Assessment of the influence of coastal land use on colonial waterbirds. In addition to examining the effects of humans on herons and seabirds, we study habitat changes resulting from sea level rise and hurricanes. This research evaluates responses from the level of landscape down to that of individual behavior. We are also evaluating the efficiency and effects of translocation approaches designed to establish new colonies. |
 | Investigation of foraging and roosting habitat use of forest-dwelling bats, especially as it relates to human disturbance of roost sites and surrounding habitats. This work couples population genetics, mist net sampling, and acoustic monitoring of bat populations. Current research is focused on understanding roost ecology and the demographic and genetic connectedness of populations. |
 | Examination of the genetic structure, loss of diversity, and effective sizes of populations of threatened bird species. Most of our current activities involve studies of species threatened by land use changes in central Texas. This work is focused on how habitat loss and fragmentation have influenced genetic processes in study populations. |
 | Assessment of how increased salinity, along with habitat fragmentation, is affecting the genetic structure, demographics, and history of resident fishes in coastal marshes. In addition to field sampling in areas subjected to sea level rise and marsh loss, we are conducting microcosm experiments to determine the role that adaptation and genetic bottlenecks might play in the ability of fish to cope with changing coastal environments. |
 | Investigation of how forest management practices and landscape processes affect avian, herpetofaunal, and mammal populations. In addition to quantifying differences in abundance due to management strategy, we will be attempting to understand the influence of management on productivity, mortality, and dispersal. Currently our work is focused on small mammalian carnivores. |
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