Mike Vivalda, Biologist

Mike joined the Ecosphere team in April 2005, bringing more than four years of field experience in wildlife and ecological studies in the Four Corners region.  Areas of expertise include migratory songbirds, and local riparian, montane and desert habitats.  He has led field crews on research involving the effects of brown-headed cowbirds on migratory songbird nest success and has documented these relationships with respect to grazing densities.  He has also studied the effects of wildfire on bird populations and nest predation, and is permitted by the USFWS to survey for the federally endangered southwestern willow flycatcher and Mexican spotted owl.  Mike is highly proficient in conducting rangeland surveys and TES plant surveys. He has also monitored post-fire vegetative re-growth. He is experienced in both small and large mammal trapping and has used clover, corral and net traps to capture and collar deer and elk.  Prior to joining Ecosphere, Mike worked with the Colorado Division of Wildlife on a project to reintroduce sharp-tailed grouse to their historical habitat in southwest Colorado and to monitor the success of previously introduced Gunnison sage grouse. Mike holds a bachelor of science in biology with an emphasis in wildlife management from Fort Lewis College.

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