Print PageOver the last thirty years, scientists and birdwatchers alike have noted precipitous population declines in many species of migratory songbirds. However, the transitory nature of migratory birds makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of such declines. As a consequence, developing effective management strategies remains elusive. We implement genome-wide sequencing techniques to discover Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) that are diagnostic of breeding populations on a fine spatial scale. Using rapid SNP screening technologies we then screen hundreds of feather samples collected from across the breeding wintering and draw essential connections between breeding and non-breeding areas.
Results/Conclusions
To date we have successfully identify ~11,000 SNPs from two species of migratory songbirds, the Wilson's Warbler (Wilsonia pusilla) and the Swainson's thrush (Catharus ustulatus). The resulting maps linking breeding and non-breeding areas will be used in combination with demographic data to identify threaten or endangered populations.
