Paula Wasiak
PhD Student
email paula.wasiak@anu.edu.au

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About

I am a conservation ecologist reintroducing the charismatic bush stone-curlew (Burhinus grallarius) into south-eastern Australia's rural-urban landscape. Listed as Critically Endangered in Victoria, I aim to create a stronghold for these birds on Millowl, Phillip Island.

I am using GPS telemetry to investigate the post-release movements and survival of translocated bush stone-curlews. I am also researching the birds' ecological role, how behaviour affects post-release survival, and how we can work together with communities to maximise the success of reintroduction programs.

Prior to my PhD, I worked as a penguin field biologist for 15 years, coordinating and conducting field data collection for projects aimed at future-proofing the survival of little penguins.

When I'm not in the field or tied to the computer, you will find me sharing wildlife stories with anyone who will listen - online, in the media, or through public presentations. I love mixing in science with funny anecdotes in the hope of sparking joy, wonder, and a desire for conservation action in the wider community.

Affiliations

  Groups

Publications

Publications

Rodríguez, A., Moffett, J., Revoltós, A., Wasiak, P., McIntosh, R. R., Sutherland, D. R., & Chiaradia, A. (2017). Light pollution and seabird fledglings: targeting efforts in rescue programs. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 81(4), 734-741. doi.org/10.1002/jwmg.21237

Rodríguez, A., Chiaradia, A., Wasiak, P., Renwick, L., & Dann, P. (2016). Waddling on the dark side: Ambient light affects attendance behavior of little penguins. Journal of Biological Rhythms, 31(2), 194-204. doi.org/10.1177/0748730415626

Wasiak, P (2007), The role of shell grit ingestion in the reproductive biology of little penguins (Eudyptula minor). Honours Thesis, Monash University, Melbourne.

Presentations

Wasiak, P., Renwick, L., Tucker, T., Murphy, S., (2023). The Fall and Rise of the Little Penguin on Phillip Island, Australia [Poster presentation]. 11th International Penguin Conference, Vina Del Mar, Chile.

Wasiak, P. (2022) The climate crisis and the need for immediate on-ground action: An example from Millowl (Phillip Island). [Oral presentation]. 7th Island Arks Symposium, Phillip Island, Australia

Wasiak, P., Bellet, J., Baulch, R., (2019). Is it worth it? Little penguin rehabilitation and release on Phillip Island [Poster presentation]. 10th International Penguin Conference, Dunedin, New Zealand.

Wasiak, P., Chiaradia, A., Reina, R., (2010). The role of shell grit ingestion in the reproductive biology of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) [Paper presentation]. 7th International Penguin Conference, Boston, USA.

Accomplishments

Named a Science and Technology Australia 2023/2024 Superstar of STEM.

https://scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au/profile/paula-wasiak/