Background
I carry out studies of birds in pinewoods, primarily the native pinewood of Abernethy Forest reserve. The key species are capercaillie, crossbills and crested tits. Topics include population estimates and dynamics, habitat associations, factors affecting breeding success and behaviour studies (eg mating patterns in crossbills).
I am also interested in the development of woodland structure within native pinewoods. Previous research has included population and ecological studies of Slavonian grebes and hen harriers.
I work closely with Mark Hancock who carried out a PhD study of the effects of disturbance (fire, cutting and cattle grazing) within native pinewoods. Numerous research assistants and students have been involved with different ecological studies within Abernethy Forest. I have many years of experience of ecological studies on birds.
External Activities
- Wader studies with the Highland Ringing Group: winter surveys, ringing to derive demographic parameters, and migration studies on purple sandpiper, common sandpiper and greenshank using geo-locators.
Partners and Collaboration
- Prof Stephen Buckland, University of St Andrews
- Dr Glenn Iason, James Hutton Institute
- Dr Kirsty Park, University of Stirling
- Alice Broome, Forest Research, Roslin, Midlothian
Contact
Dr Ron Summers
Principal Conservation Scientist, Conservation Science
North Scotland Regional Office, Etive House, Beechwood Park, Inverness, IV2 3BW