My research group currently pursue two main themes. The first of these concerns the behaviour and vocalisations of social animals. Using a combination of observational data, sound recordings and a variety of experimental manipulations, we work on several different bird, mammal, fish and invertebrate study systems in captivity and around the world (South Africa, Australia, Panama, Trinidad), including the Dwarf Mongoose Research Project which we established in 2011. Specific current research interests include:

• Consequences of out-group conflict

• Sentinel behaviour and vigilance patterns

• Alarm-call use and development

• Decision-making and information use

• Behavioural stress

The second major topic concerns the potential impact of anthropogenic noise. Using a combination of laboratory and field experiments (in Scotland, France, French Polynesia, Malawi and Australia), we are considering how this global pollutant affects the behaviour, physiology and development of a variety of fish and invertebrate species, as well as the dwarf mongooses.

For further details, see our research site.