Department of Biology

Joseph Ortega

Dr. Ortega received a B.A. in 1980 at the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Ph.D. in 1988 at the University of Colorado, Boulder.  He has been teaching at Fort Lewis College since 1991 and is a Professor of Biology.  Much of Dr. Ortega’s research interests have examined the effects of brood parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater), predation, grazing intensities, and habitat on the reproductive biology of birds in the 4-Corners Region.  Since summer 2003, he has studied the effects of the 2002 Missionary Ridge Fire (San Juan National Forest), and resulting salvage logging, on breeding bird populations.  Among other activities, some of his older research efforts included studies of the behavioral ecology of both rock squirrels (Spermophilus variegatus) and coyotes (Canis latrans). In addition to the above, he is interested in the effects of habitat modification (from whatever the source, such as fire or the introduction of exotic grasses) on the biota and structure of various ecosystems.