MinerAlert
MinerAlert
March 2025
By Anna Carrillo '19, '21
How much do you really know about ducks? These fascinating birds have been around for over 80 million years, coexisting with dinosaurs and playing a significant role in human history. They have long served as a food source and were even part of agricultural domestication during China’s Ming Dynasty.
To learn more about these remarkable birds, I spoke with Philip Lavretsky, Ph.D., an associate professor of biological sciences at UTEP. He shared insights into the world of ducks and how his research is shaping conservation efforts. By studying biodiversity from the field to the genetic level, his work helps us better understand species diversity and develop strategies to manage and protect wildlife effectively.
Lavretsky grew up in Los Angeles, California, and pursued his passion for wildlife and genetics at UC Davis, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. He then completed his Ph.D. at Wright State University in Ohio before joining UTEP in 2016. At UTEP, he established his evolutionary genetics lab, Lavretsky Lab, where his team studies biodiversity from the field to genes. By analyzing organisms in their natural environments and applying genetic research, they help uncover insights into population dynamics and evolution.
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Waterfowl Worldwide
Today, there are more than 150 species of waterfowl worldwide, with 55 found in North America. Here in our region, we can spot between 10 and 30 species—but one, in particular, stands out: the Mexican Duck.
Native to the Chihuahuan Desert, the Mexican Duck has evolved to thrive in our environment. Unlike many bird species facing population declines, these ducks are expanding and doing remarkably well. Researchers, including Lavretsky and his team at UTEP’s wildlife genetics lab, are studying the Mexican Duck to understand what makes it so resilient—insights that could help conservation efforts for other struggling species.
DuckDNA
Thanks to Lavretsky’s collaboration between UTEP and the wetland conservation nonprofit Ducks Unlimited, we can gather more data than ever before through the launch of DuckDNA. Less than three years old, DuckDNA is a “citizen science project" that engages the help of hunters across the United States. By mailing in duck tissue samples, hunters contribute to a growing database that allows UTEP to analyze genetic profiles—almost like 23andMe, but for ducks! This initiative provides amazing insights into waterfowl genetics, allowing researchers to track species diversity, hybridization, and population trends to help inform conservation efforts and threats.
In just the first two years, more than 2,000 samples were collected from across the country. Participants who sign up receive a kit to collect and send in a tissue sample. Once the genetic analysis is complete, they receive a certificate detailing the genetic makeup of their sample.
Ducks, Ecosystems, and Conservation
"Without habitat, there are no ducks, there are no wildlife," states Lavretsky. However, conservation goes beyond protecting wetlands; it also involves maintaining the natural characteristics of wild duck populations. Lavretsky explains that when wild ducks interbreed with domestic or hybridized lineages, their offspring may lose key survival instincts, such as migration patterns. These genetic changes can weaken their ability to adapt to environmental challenges, ultimately leading to population declines. Understanding both habitat conservation and the genetic factors affecting wild populations is essential for ensuring the long-term survival of waterfowl species.
Current Bird Flu Outbreak
Lavretsky and his team, along with other researchers, are investigating how genetic variability influences susceptibility to diseases like bird flu. "The Bird Flu is a problem. It's quite a big problem," explains Lavretsky. One key concern is that domesticated animals, which typically have lower genetic diversity, are more vulnerable to illness.
"When we crossbreed domestic lineages with wild populations, we may unintentionally make wild ducks more susceptible to disease," shares Lavretsky. His team is working to understand these risks at a finer scale. By analyzing samples collected through DuckDNA, researchers can screen for genetic markers associated with disease resistance or vulnerability. This research aims to answer important questions—similar to those in human health studies—such as why some people develop diseases or cancer while others do not. With a growing data set, scientists can now explore the genetic factors that influence disease susceptibility in ducks, helping to inform conservation and management strategies.
New Research on the Horizon
Lavretsky’s research team is undertaking two major studies—one in Hawaii and another in South Carolina—each addressing critical questions about genetics and conservation. In Hawaii, they are preparing to test models designed to artificially move the genetic signature of a species affected by hybridization. By carefully controlling breeding, they aim to shift the genetic makeup from hybrid back to a pure species. If successful, this approach could have significant implications for managing and restoring wild populations elsewhere.
Meanwhile, in South Carolina, the focus is on understanding the impact of domesticated mallards—specifically, the game-farm mallard, a domestic lineage that has been introduced into the wild. Researchers are studying their survival rates, breeding habits, and how they interact with the environment. The goal is to determine the extent of their influence on wild duck populations and explore possible management strategies to mitigate their impact.
Looking ahead, Lavretsky is excited about expanding wildlife DNA data collection efforts, potentially including species like turkeys and even grizzly bears in Alaska. “Our work provides valuable genetic insights to a variety of entities,” he explains. His team has already conducted and published research on endangered plants, fish, reptiles, and other wildlife. The scope of their research depends on the species in question, the funding available, and the scientific questions that need answers. As new opportunities arise, their work continues to evolve, helping to inform conservation and management strategies for a wide range of organisms.
How Can Everyday People Help Protect Duck Populations and Their Habitats?
There are several simple yet impactful ways people can contribute to duck conservation:
Small actions, when taken collectively, can make a big difference in protecting duck populations and ensuring their long-term survival.
Career Advice
“If you want to work in wildlife, you have to be truly passionate about the system,” Lavretsky advises. Fieldwork isn’t always easy—it can be hot, cold, messy, and physically demanding. Knowing whether you can handle these challenges is crucial. Gain hands-on experience as early as possible, whether through internships, research opportunities, or volunteering. “Sometimes life sucks, and you’re going to need that passion to help you get through the hard parts,” he says. Finding that passion early can make all the difference in building a fulfilling career in conservation.
Learn More
While the Centennial Museum's A Waddle Through Time exhibit has ended, you can still explore Dr. Lavretsky's work by visiting the Lavretsky Lab Research website. Discover the latest projects and insights from Dr. Lavretsky and his team.
