Welcome to the Hauber Lab,

researching avian recognition systems.

Research in the Hauber lab at the Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, focuses on the evolution of recognition systems. Shifting gears between behavioral, developmental, and molecular tools, we are studying the social and genetic consequences of species recognition in avian brood parasites, such as cuckoos and cowbirds. Brood parasitic birds provide an exciting model system for the evolution of social behaviours because, unlike 98% of bird species, they lay their eggs into nests of other species and are reared by foster parents. Other projects in the lab tap into local research opportunities presented at the New York City region, my ongoing contacts with the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland, New Zealand (and its amazing birds), and national and international collaborations throughout the world of birds, mammals, spiders, and other organisms.

This website is a work in progress, so please check in frequently for news and updates.