Dr. Paul Gray. photo by Dustin Angel

SPEAKER: Paul Gray, Ph.D.

Waterfowl, ducks, geese and swans are among the most treasured birds in human cultures. They are pets, food, watch "dogs", collector's items, the subject of literature and art, harbingers of changing seasons, hunting and birding trophies and even have had dog breeds created just to hunt them. North America hosts about one-third of all species in the world, and Florida hosts most North American species. Dr. Gray will talk about the diversity of this remarkable group including our human interactions and fascination with them.

Dr. Gray is a Science Coordinator for Audubon Florida's Everglades Restoration Program. He is based out of Lorida, FL, near the Kissimmee River, and has been working for Audubon for 29 years

Paul works on water, land, and bird management issues primarily related to Lake Okeechobee, but assists with state-wide issues too. This work entails representing Audubon in public and private meetings, and helping develop Audubon oral and written comments on various policy and technical issues. He is a charter member of the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Working Group and former co-chair of the Snail Kite Coordinating Committee.

Paul’s educational background includes a BS from the University of Missouri, an MS from Texas Tech University on wetland ecology, and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida focused on waterfowl ecology.