This research line aims to investigate a several aspects of the behaviour and ecology of synanthropic species mainly for management purposes. The experimental model is the feral pigeon (Columba livia f. domestica), which is the most common bird species of Italian and European cities urban. The main research questions are:
- Development and testing of accurate methods for estimating birds abundance in urban areas;
- Spatial behaviour and reproductive biology
- Identification of cost-effective pest control techniques by means of population models (population viability analysis) and field and laboratory testing of chemosterilants
- Development of methodologies for mitigating the impact of feral pigeons on crops, buildings and food factories