Allert Bijleveld

As a behavioural ecologist I study how animals adapt to the dynamic tidal environment of the Wadden Sea. Where do birds and fish go, and where do they find their food? Even within species there are huge differences between individuals. Some are very cautious, and others fly huge distances per tide in search of food. What are hotspots for biodiversity of worms, shellfish and shrimp living in and on the intertidal mudflats? The answers to questions like these will tell us what areas are crucial and what animals will get into trouble due to human activities, such as mining, fishing, and climate change.