About Me

Asch M. Nighthawk

I study nocturnal birds, especially nightjars. My research is focused on conservation ecology, with a particular interest in how species select and use resources across spatial scales. I am drawn to the mix of mystery and challenge that comes with studying animals most people never see. My original quest to become a conservation field zoologist dates as far back as 3rd grade, when my friends and I spent our lunchtimes in the library learning about endangered species.

When I am not conducting research, I spend time doing wildlife photography and painting. I most frequently paint my own research subjects or those of my colleagues, complete with bands, transmitters, and other research equipment.

I have realized in conversations with other ecologists that many of us have discovered the same small facts about our research subjects independently, yet often did not share them beyond our own projects. This blog exists to bring those pieces together and make the species I study less mysterious for anyone who has an interest to listen.

And yes, that is my real name.