Brian E. Washburn

Brian E. Washburn is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at multiple universities and a Research Biologist at the USDA APHIS Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) in Sandusky, OH. His work focuses on reducing wildlife hazards near airports through applied ecology research.

• Ph.D. in Animal Sciences, University of Kentucky
• M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science, Pennsylvania State University
• B.S. in Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
• A.A.S. in Biological Technology, SUNY Cobleskill

Dr. Washburn’s research spans wildlife movement patterns, foraging ecology, urban ecosystem interactions, and non-lethal management practices. He investigates animal sensory ecology, antipredator behaviors, and the application of robotics in wildlife deterrence, particularly for raptors, geese, and gulls.

His work includes evaluating habitat management tools like prescribed fire and insecticides to reduce airport wildlife use, live-capture method ethics for migratory birds, and mitigation strategies for human-wildlife conflicts, such as those involving Hawaiian cultural birds. He collaborates with the U.S. Department of Defense, civilian airports, and international partners in South Africa.

Key partnerships include universities, state agencies, and private industry. He leads the research project Understanding, Preventing, and Mitigating the Negative Effects of Wildlife Collisions with Aircraft, integrating spatial data and technology for aviation safety.