Dave Brandes, professor of civil and environmental engineering, has a passion for wildlife photography that led him to a remarkable scientific contribution. While observing peregrine falcons last spring, Brandes captured rare images of fledglings feeding one another, a behavior known as “sibling allofeeding.” Previously documented in only two of more than 500 raptor species, this observation offers valuable new insight into bird behavior. He partnered with Mike Butler, professor of biology, to co-author a paper detailing the finding, now published in the Journal of Raptor Research.
In addition, Brandes recently won first place in the inaugural Through the Wild Lens photo contest at Natural Lands’ Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary.
Submitted by: Susan Boerchers