Thanks to the Migratory Bird Scholarship Program awarded by Fundación ProAves, researcher Diego Mejía presented his scientific work at the third edition of the international JJBA conference (Journées Jeunes BioAcousticiens), held from June 23 to 26, 2025, in Vernon, France. His presentation reached an audience of over 60 bioacoustics and biology experts from various European countries,
This project was made possible through the support of Fundación ProAves, which fosters scientific advancement among young Colombians through its scholarship program—providing real opportunities for a new generation of researchers to contribute to biodiversity knowledge and conservation.
The research focused on identifying components of vocal behavior in two migratory bird species: the Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera) and the Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea) during their stay in wintering areas in Colombia, specifically within the ProAves Arrierito Antioqueño and Reinita Cielo Azul reserves.
The goal was to understand how the ecological and developmental functions of their vocalizations vary in contrast to their breeding grounds in North America.
Mejía emphasized the importance of conducting research in tropical regions. His message was clear: “If studies focus only on temperate regions like Europe or the United States, we are seeing only half of the ecological story of migratory birds. In this sense, conducting research in megadiverse countries like Colombia is essential to understanding their full life cycles.”
The scholarship developed by Diego was one of twelve awarded by ProAves in the second half of 2024, and it represents not only a scientific achievement but also a powerful example of how academic support initiatives are paving the way for conservation and research in Colombia to gain international recognition and voice.
