Chris Williams

Chris Williams is a Professor of Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology. He holds joint appointments in the Biden School of Public Policy & Administration and affiliations with the Quantitative Biology and Delaware Environmental Institute. Previously served as Associate Provost for Sustainability (2023-2024) and has held positions from Assistant to Associate Professor at the same institution.

• Ph.D. in Wildlife Ecology with a minor in Natural Resource Policy (University of Wisconsin, 2001)
• M.S. in Wildlife Ecology (University of Wisconsin, 1996)
• B.S. in Zoology and Botany (Miami University, 1994)

Dr. Williams specializes in wildlife ecology with a focus on waterfowl and nongame species. His research spans bioenergetics, habitat modeling, avian influenza dynamics, and environmental policy, particularly concerning the New Jersey Pine Barrens, Delmarva Peninsula, and Atlantic Flyway systems. Publications frequently address carrying capacity estimation, time-energy budgets, and covey dynamics.

His 15 most recent articles (2024-1994) reveal consistent work in waterfowl ecology, habitat modeling, and policy analysis. Key trends include avian influenza transmission in waterfowl, Arctic goose population dynamics, and human-wildlife conflict resolution through policy innovations. Notable collaborations span institutions including University of Wisconsin, University of Florida, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Scientific recognition includes:

• 2014 Dennis Raveling Scholarship
• 2014-15 Ankney Scholarship
• 2013 Outstanding Book Award (Texas Chapter, The Wildlife Society)

As an advisor, Williams has mentored 35+ graduate students and postdocs across Wildlife Ecology, Energy & Environmental Policy, and Biological Sciences. Current projects involve renewable energy impacts on Arctic geese, wood duck nest box studies, and avian influenza transmission models. He leads research teams at the UD Waterfowl and Upland Gamebird Center and contributes to Delaware’s environmental policy through the Sustainability Council.