2011 © DeeAnn M. Reeder, Department of Biology, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA 17837
Sudan is the largest country in Africa and South Sudan is a region larger than Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda combined, with an estimated human population of only about 7 million. While South Sudan is rich in culture, biodiversity, and resources, the people are among the poorest of the world and very little research has occurred there for decades due to conflict.
My research program has several objectives:
1. Document mammalian biodiversity in South Sudan. Understanding what species are found in an area and how these species interact is critical for conservation and research.
2. Examine relationships between biodiversity and disease ecology, focusing especially on immune characteristics of flying foxes (bats in the family Pteropodidae).
3. Empower the people of South Sudan to live sustainably with their natural resources, through public education and collaboration with wildlife officials.
I also work closely with an orphanage in South Sudan, helping to p
rovide a future
for the next generation. Please visit the website that I manage for St. Bartholomew’s
Orphanage (and feel free to open your wallet!).
I have just returned from three months in South Sudan and am planing my next trip, which will be in June/July of 2012. If you are interested in the work, or would like me to facilitate your ability to work in this region, please contact me: dreeder@bucknell.edu.
Tinate! (Bari for ‘thank you’)
Tinate (Bari for “thank you!”)