Biodiversity Research Institute (BRI), a nonprofit ecological research group based in Portland, Maine, conducts innovative wildlife science worldwide.
BRI’s Center for Mercury Studies plays a lead scientific role in understanding the exposure and effects of mercury on wildlife in New England, North America, and around the world. The Center for Waterbird Studies is dedicated to assessing current and emerging threats to waterbirds. The programs in our Center for Ecology and Conservation Research aim to understand the workings of wildlife and their habitats while exploring how ecological stressors affect different species and ecosystems.
BRI's researchers are available to talk to journalists and provide expert information on both their work and the broader topics of their expertise.
To set up interviews, contact:
Deborah McKew, Communications Director
In 2017, with a grant from the American Eagle Foundation, BRI will conduct follow-up work on our 2014 study characterizing Bald Eagle use of the Lower Sebasticook River in central Maine. Attracted by millions of river herring travelling between the ocean and upstream spawning areas, Bald Eagles gather on the Sebasticook during the summer months in higher numbers than likely anywhere else in New England. For the 2017 study, BRI will work with land trusts and wildlife agencies to promote land conservation and “eagle-friendly” land use practices along this ecologically unique and important corridor. Efforts promoting conservation along this corridor will have long-lasting impacts on the region’s Bald Eagle population, fisheries, and other wildlife. Click here to read more about the Sebasticook, fisheries and the 2014 Bald Eagle study.
Bald Eagle with alewife (© John R. Rivers, 3RiversPhotos)