Collaborative Research: The mathematics of animal migration

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $337,877 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This project will develop mathematical models that will aid in the understanding of animal migration. Migration is a widespread phenomenon that occurs seasonally as animals shift their locations in response to changing conditions. Oftentimes these changes involve spatial variation in resources that serve as cues for animals to track, resulting in wave-like population expansions. This research will use a series of novel mathematical modeling approaches to explore such seasonal, wave-like migratory dynamics, with a specific focus on understanding how the quality and quantity of resources interact to shape the pace and pattern of migration for varied theoretical scenarios. In addition, a pre-existing dataset of GPS tracking data for the critically endangered scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah) will be analyzed to characterize when, where, and how well the animals track seasonal changes in resource availability in a resource-poor landscape. The project will support the training of undergraduate and graduate students who are developing skills and knowledge at the interface of mathematics and biology. Consumer tracking of transient resources occurs worldwide in a wide range of systems and taxa. The 'green wave surfing' hypothesis is a recent conceptual advance in understanding such resource tracking that is now widely discussed with regard to seasonal migrations of ungulates, birds, and marine species. According to this hypothesis, migrating consumer species living in seasonal

Key facts

NSF award ID
2451241
Awardee
University of Maryland, College Park (MD)
SAM.gov UEI
NPU8ULVAAS23
PI
William F Fagan
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Biotechnology
Estimated total
$337,877
Funds obligated
$337,877
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028