Christopher M. Tonra

Christopher M. Tonra is an Associate Professor in Avian Wildlife Ecology at The Ohio State University, where he also serves as Chair of the Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park. His research integrates behavior, physiology, and ecology to study avian systems, focusing on

• Animal movement and migratory connectivity
• Seasonal interactions and annual cycles
• Habitat selection under anthropogenic disturbances

His work employs observational field studies, hormone analysis, stable isotope ecology, and experimental approaches in both wild and captive settings. Recent studies highlight collaborations on Eastern Whip-poor-will migration, Prothonotary Warbler nonbreeding ecology, and dam removal impacts on nutrient cycling. He teaches courses in Avian Biology and Management (ENR 5364.02), Animal Movement Seminar (ENR 8890.01), and Introduction to Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife (ENR 3300).

Publications from 2015–2022 demonstrate expertise in molt-migration dynamics, testosterone's role in migration preparation, and climate change effects on migratory birds. His lab's research spans Neotropical migratory birds, Brood parasites like Brown-headed Cowbirds, and conservation implications of full annual cycle studies. Current projects examine landscape physiology across terrestrial ecotherms and restoration ecology in tropical forests.

As Chair of the Olentangy River Wetland Research Park, he oversees a critical facility for wetland studies, while advising students on topics like Rusty Blackbird stopover behavior, Avian seed-hoarder preferences, and climate-driven shifts in migratory phenology. Collaborations include institutions across the Midwest, Colombia, and Panama, emphasizing international conservation efforts.