Tracking microclimate and disturbance thresholds for hibernation: A sentinel approach to environmental health
Supervisors:
Dr Davina Hill, School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Dr Jiren Xu, School of Social & Environmental Sustainability
Dr Davide Dominoni, School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Dr Julia Nowack, Liverpool John Moores University
Summary:
Climate change and urbanisation are reshaping the habitats animals depend on, posing new risks to seasonal species such as hibernators. These species may be particularly vulnerable, as they must condense weight gain and reproduction into a brief active period which is governed by environmental cues.
This PhD project will investigate how microclimate and disturbance affect hibernation patterns and physiological resilience in European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus). Hedgehogs will be monitored across an urban–rural gradient using cutting-edge sensors to track torpor dynamics. Health will be assessed using biomarkers of stress and immune function, alongside infrared thermography.
The successful candidate will integrate high resolution field data with long-term citizen science records and climate datasets to model habitat suitability and identify risk zones under future climate scenarios. Practical management measures will be evaluated in collaboration with conservation stakeholders to inform biodiversity planning and community action.
This interdisciplinary project combines thermal biology, immunology, field ecology, climate science and spatial modelling to understand how environmental change affects hibernation and health. The research has wider implications for animal welfare, climate resilience and One Health approaches to disease ecology.