I am interested broadly in the study of bird behavior, but especially in topics that relate  to reproduction, sexual selection and communication on Neotropical species. As a biologist working in the tropics, I believe strongly in integrating descriptive (natural history) works with an experimental approach in my projects. Natural history information is lacking for the majority of tropical species. This information provides a base for hypothesis testing and conservation programs.

My projects on reproduction include studies on cavity nesters (principally in Melanerpes woodpecker species), nest selection by Piractic Flycatcher (Legatus leucophaius) a nest thief, parental care, and nest descriptions.

I studied sexual selection in the Spot-bellied Bobwhite (Colinus leucopogon) during my master degree in the Universidad de Costa Rica. I analyzed the relationship between song variation, female preference, and territory establishment. Also I analyzed the effect of simulated male intrusions on male behavior, with a focus on the variation of vocal response.
 

Currently I am completing my Ph.D. at the University of Windsor in the laboratory of Dr. Daniel Mennill. I am studying the effect of multiple forces (selection and constraints) on the evolution of vocal signals in thicket dwelling species, with a focus on Melozone ground-sparrows. However I am also developing other projects that involve vocal communication in tropical bird species.