Wentao Yang was an undergraduate in the Karp Lab, majoring in evolution, ecology, and biodiversity. Like a bird migrating in fall, Wentao came halfway across the planet to the US to pursue his bachelor’s degree. Broadly, he is interested in how ecological traits affect birds with respect to their habitat selection and behavior. He worked with Austin Spence, a postdoctoral scholar in the lab, to investigate gastrointestinal diseases that may be transmitted by bird feces, as well as the consequences for food safety.
After coming here, Wentao fell in love with the diversity of microhabitats and birds in California. He enjoyed studying birds in their different habitats and chasing rarities across the county. He was also the co-founder of the Birdwatching Club at UC Davis and organized bird events year round. He is dedicated to involving more students in birding and conservation. Curriculum Vitae