The National Collections are maintained as a resource to promote ornithological research, and as such, are irreplaceable. Between 200 and 400 scientists from around the world visit the collections each year to conduct research in the biogeography, evolution, systematics, taxonomy, paleontology, and ecology of birds. Our staff in the Division of Birds includes two full time curators, two emeritus curators, and two other researchers. We also have two research associates using our collections regularly. The Department of Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration utilizes our specimens to identify the remains of bird/aircraft strikes. All of these researchers are supported by the four collection management staff members who also work in the Division. They help make the collections available to scientists unable to visit the museum by loaning specimens each year to institutions worldwide. Our researchers also borrow specimens from other museums each year to support their research programs.
