Fifteen years ago, SFU professor Tony Williams began to study the breeding biology of European starlings. He hoped his research would shed light on some evolutionary issues that would be relevant to all bird species.
Little did Williams realize that the data he collected would capture a time of rapid change in local agriculture that in turn would influence the starlings' breeding behaviour. More surprisingly, his research findings have led to starlings now being used by Environment Canada to monitor agricultural areas across Canada for pesticides and other chemicals in our environment.
In a presentation to the Burke Mountain Naturalists next Tuesday, Sept. 10, Williams will describe the twists and turns of a scientific journey that began with some basic biological questions and led to a significant practical outcome.
At the same meeting, author and BMN member Lyle Litzenberger will be selling copies of his new book Burke and Widgeon: A Hiker's Guide. This is the first guidebook devoted to trails in Burke-Pinecone Park (burkeandwidgeon.com) and contains details of 28 hikes to enjoy in our wilderness backyard.
Tuesday's meeting will be held in the church hall of Como Lake United Church, located on the corner of Marmont Street and King Albert Avenue in Coquitlam. Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no charge.
For further information, call 604-936-4108 or 604-461-3864, or visit www.bmn.bc.ca.
