Prof Korpimäki to get Champion of Owls Award

Erkki Korpimäki, a professor of animal ecology at the Department of Biology, University of Turku, has been selected for the Champion of Owls Award this year, said a press release.

Professor Korpimäki has studied boreal owls in the wild western regions of Finland for more than 50 years.

He will receive the award from the World Owl Hall of Fame during the 16th Annual International Festival of Owls scheduled for March 2-4, 2018 in recognition of his contributions to owl research and conservation.

Erkki Korpimäki is recognized as an international expert on boreal owls, owl ecology, and avian predator-prey relationships.

He has published more than 280 articles in international scientific journals and has been ranked as one of the most highly cited researchers in the category of ecology and the environment.

For decades, Professor Korpimäki has examined how forestry, agriculture, and climate change affect the population dynamics and conservation of owls.

Based on his research findings, he has established and maintains large networks of owl nest-boxes in western Finland to assist owls in breeding. He is actively involved in conserving Finland’s old-growth forests as nesting areas for owls and other birds of prey.