Background
I am a tropical forest ecologist with a background in research of endangered species, invertebrates that provide ecosystem services, and pollen morphology.
I am interested in solving problems related to sampling of cryptic species that are difficult to detect, so I look for solutions in non-invasive sampling techniques that permit the investigation of the environment/species of importance, including tools such as remote infrared camera trapping, sign detection, molecular analysis, DNA barcoding, UAV droning, and canopy access.
My role at the RSPB is to undertake land cover mapping of the Greater Gola Landscape in West Africa and to model the distribution of the highly diverse fauna in order to identify areas of high conservation value. This data will enable local stakeholders to make more informed deicisions on future sustainable uses of their forests while simaltaneously protecting biodiversity.
External Activities
- 2019-2020: Visiting Fellow at Cardiff University
- 2018-2020: Visiting Academic at University of Southampton
- 2013-2020: Banteng Coordinator for the IUCN SSC Asian Wild Cattle Specialist Group
Partners and Collaboration
- Dr. Jenny Hodgson, University of Liverpool
Contact
Dr Penny Gardner
Conservation Scientist, Conservation Science
RSPB UK Headquarters, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL