Brood Parasitism

Bella

Thu, Jul 15, 2021 7:00 PM

Humans have attached ideals and traits to birds throughout history. Cultural significance can motivate citizens to protect species like the Bald Eagle. But what happens when a species is the villain of the story?

Brood parasites lay their eggs in other birds’ nests, letting other birds do the work of parenting. People tend to view them as selfish free-loaders, and they indeed contribute to the decline of some vulnerable species. However, they are only executing reproductive strategies that selection pressures favor. Parasites are in a constant evolutionary arms race with their host, and their ecology is beautifully complex.

Join Bella as she presents on different brood parasite birds around the world! It will be a great opportunity to break through biases and appreciate these fascinating birds.