Kate McGinn Ecology

I am a Visiting Assistant Professor at Colorado College based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I collaborate with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, USDA Forest Service Region 5, the Cornell University Lisa Yang Center for Conservation Bioacoustics, and private stakeholders.

In our research group, we use multiple strategies to learn how to efficiently and effectively conserve biodiversity in a rapidly changing world. I am especially excited about the cryptic nocturnal world and the animals that are active at night. We study the physiology, behaviors, movements, demographic rates, and distributions of owls in North America. Currently, my research focuses on forest owl responses to changing disturbance regimes and proactive forest management.

We are committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where all members feel valued and supported. We recognize that diversity of thought, background, and experience is essential for scientific advancement and innovation. We also acknowledge the Indigenous stewards of the land on which we conduct research. Colorado College is located on the unceded territory of the Ute Peoples. The Sierra Nevada, where much of our research is conducted, has a rich history, culture, and ongoing presence of Indigenous communities, including but not limited to the Miwok, Mono, Nüümü, Newe, and Washoe who have stewarded the land for many generations.