Spring 2010: Biology Dept. hosts Dr. Ian van Tets discussion 'Surviving Sub-Zero: The Ingenuity of Alaska's lemmings and voles'

Friday, Feb. 12, 3:30-4:45 p.m.
CPISB, Room 120

The boom and bust nature of lemming and vole populations has fascinated ecologists for more than a century and it remains one of the greatest mysteries of population ecology.

Lemming myths are embedded in the stories of northern peoples and the natural history books of the West. However, hard data is more difficult to find, but that data may be critical if we are to successfully manage northern ecosystems. Lemmings and voles are primary food sources for many Alaska predators. Many of these species can only breed during lemming or vole booms. In recent decades those booms have been smaller, less regular, and less frequent.

This lecture will explore the physiological ecology of these fascinating animals. The implications of climate change on Alaska's lemmings and voles, and for the animals that depend on them as a food sources, will also be discussed.

Parking on the UAA campus is free of charge on Fridays. No-host refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact Elizabeth Winfree at (907) 786-4780.