Merav Ben-David

Merav Ben-David is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Zoology and Physiology at the University of Wyoming, affiliated with the College of Agriculture, Life Sciences, and Natural Resources. Her research focuses on the interplay between animal behavioral ecology, population dynamics, and ecosystem function, particularly in carnivores and nutrient transport mechanisms. She employs isotopic and genetic tracers to study ecological processes such as salmon-derived nutrient transfer and the impacts of human activity on wildlife.

Education:

• PhD, Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks (1996)
• MS, Zoology, Tel-Aviv University (1988)
• BS, Biology, Tel-Aviv University (1984)

Research Interests:

Her work explores how behavioral trade-offs in carnivores (e.g., brown bears) influence ecosystem-level processes. For example, she investigates how female bears balance nutritional needs with predation risks to optimize salmon consumption, which impacts terrestrial nutrient distribution. Recent studies include river otter population dynamics in Yellowstone, polar bear physiological adaptations to climate change, and the role of latrine sites in otter social networks.

Grants and Collaboration:

Her projects often involve interdisciplinary collaborations, such as using isotopic niche modeling (rKIN software) and field experiments to assess wildlife responses to environmental changes. She has contributed to conservation initiatives, including river otter recovery programs and studies on the effects of oil spills on aquatic ecosystems.

Awards:

No specific awards listed, though her work has significant impact in conservation and ecological methodology.