A red-tail hawk was hunting along the part of Zarzamora Creek that runs by Our Lady of the Lake University. That stretch of the creek is called Elmendorf Lake. Like many lakes in Texas, it’s just a wide spot in a waterway.
The students aren’t back yet. The omicron variant has delayed classes, and students are being taught online. I’ve been wondering what effect the pandemic has on the hawks.
I once talked to a biology professor who said the campus was infested with raptors. They are there because of the rodents, who are there because of the students.
Humans create garbage — even those who are ecologically aware. The campus is remarkably free of litter. But I’ve seen hawks diving into the garbage bins and checking the roofs of dorms.
E.O. Wilson, the biologist who is considered a hero in these notes, used to argue for a broader view of ecology. We consider the nests of hawks and the dens of coyotes part of the natural world. Why not the houses of humans? Why don’t we study cities and suburbs when we study biology? Or university campuses?
Does a disruption in the population of students affect other populations?
I’ve been trying to think about how a student could get that question into measurable form. But I’ve seen fewer hawks this winter and can’t help but wonder.
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