Auriel Fournier

Auriel Fournier is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She holds roles as Director of Forbes Biological Station and Associate Research Scientist in Waterfowl Ecology at the Illinois Natural History Survey. Her research focuses on avian ecology, wetland conservation, and the management of waterfowl and marsh bird populations. Key projects include studies on the Illinois River Valley, Emiquon Preserve, and coastal Gulf of Mexico ecosystems.

Her research interests emphasize waterfowl behavior, habitat use, and the impacts of human activities on wetland ecosystems. She has contributed to conservation strategies for coastal bird populations and has conducted extensive studies on species such as wood ducks, least bitterns, and lesser scaup. Fournier collaborates on initiatives like the Illinois Waterfowl Surveys and investigations into the effectiveness of stewardship practices for endangered species.

Recent work includes analyzing morphological differences in mallards, post-fledging survival of juvenile birds, and the ecological effects of prescribed fires in salt marshes. Her studies often bridge applied research and conservation policy, emphasizing actionable insights for ecosystem management.

• Key Projects: Illinois Waterfowl Surveys, Emiquon Preserve Monitoring, Gulf of Mexico Bird Conservation
• Collaborations: Partnerships with The Nature Conservancy, US Fish & Wildlife Service, and Gulf of Mexico Avian Monitoring Network (GoMAMN)