Hi there! I’m Yohan, a new postdoc working with Cecilia Nilsson. In my project, I’m exploring the vertical space use of nocturnal migratory birds across Europe, and especially the drivers of low-altitude flight to ultimately predict timing and locations of conflicts between birds and human infrastructure (for example, wind energy facilities and airports). To achieve this, I’ll use information on bird altitude, density, speed, and direction of movement collected every 15 minutes by the European weather radar network. The ultimate aim of this project is to provide a tool that can predict where migration peaks at low altitudes will occur a few days in advance, enabling action to be taken to reduce bird fatalities due to collisions.
I’m originally from Bordeaux, France (famous for its wine), where I did my Bachelor’s in Biology of Organisms and Ecosystems. I then moved to Dijon, France (famous for its mustard), for my Master’s in Behavioural Ecology and Wildlife Management. I ended up in Montpellier, France (famous for its… faculty of medicine – the oldest in the world still in operation) for my PhD and first postdoc, where I mainly investigated how sociality helps griffon vultures to find unpredictable resources (that is, thermal updrafts to move and carcasses to feed). I also worked on questions to reduce conflicts between social raptors space use (griffon vultures and lesser kestrels) and wind energy facilities.
Outside of work, you’ll probably find me outdoors—biking, hiking, discovering new places, or even potentially flying (all while keeping an eye out for birds). I’m looking forward to meeting many of you and hearing your recommendations for places in Sweden that should not be missed!
