J. A. Rader

Isotopic niches do not follow the expectations of niche conservatism in the bird genus Cinclodes

The paper analyzes isotopic data from 12 Cinclodes species to test phylogenetic niche conservatism, finding no phylogenetic signal in isotopic traits, suggesting high evolutionary lability in ecological niches.

Morphological evolution of bird wings follows a mechanical sensitivity gradient determined by the aerodynamics of flapping flight

This study examines how mechanical sensitivity, driven by flapping flight aerodynamics, influences the evolutionary dynamics of bird wing morphology across 178 species.

How Turkey vultures tune their airspeed to environmental and behavioral factors

This study shows Turkey vultures adjust their airspeed with air density to optimize flight efficiency, using 3D videography across different elevations.