Published September 20, 2021
Dr. Charles Clarkson Appointed Audubon Director of Avian Research
Middletown resident Dr. Charles Clarkson has been appointed Director of Avian Research for the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. In this new position, he will lead efforts in developing research programs to protect birds, other wildlife, and their habitats on Audubon protected properties and other natural spaces in Rhode Island.
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This work will include assessing the current abundance of birds utilizing Audubon properties, as well as developing a research plan for understanding long-term population trends. Dr. Clarkson will work closely with Audubon staff on management plans to enhance biodiversity on Audubon wildlife refuges and minimize the impacts of climate change on birds utilizing these conservation properties.
Dr. Clarkson recently served as the coordinator for the Rhode Island Bird Atlas, assessing long-term changes to the state’s avian populations. He has been responsible for the experimental design and implementation of field protocols, the recruitment, training, and management of over 200 volunteers, the collection, compilation, and analysis of the atlas data.
“Dr. Clarkson has a wealth of knowledge regarding the avian population and their habitats in Rhode Island,” said Audubon Executive Director Larry Taft. “He is well respected by environmental organizations and scientists throughout the state through his research and work with the RI Bird Atlas. We are thrilled to have him join the Audubon staff as Director of Avian Research.”
Dr. Clarkson earned an undergraduate degree in Environmental Sciences at Mary Washington College, a master’s degree in biology from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Doctorate degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of Virginia. He has received numerous awards for his research in the field of ornithology and resides in Middletown, RI.
