David W. Macdonald
Papers
4
Total Citations
71
H-Index
4
About
David W. Macdonald is a pioneering conservation biologist whose work spans the intersection of wildlife protection, human-wildlife conflict, and innovative data-driven conservation. He is best known for his groundbreaking research on European hedgehogs (*Erinaceus europaeus*), particularly the unexpected threats posed by robotic lawn mowers—a modern backyard hazard. His 2021 study, which tested 18 mower models on hedgehog cadavers, revealed significant risks and led to the development of a standardized safety test, earning 25 citations and influencing both public awareness and product design. Subsequent work in 2023 (5 citations each) further explored hedgehog personality and reactions to these machines, cementing his role as a leader in urban wildlife conservation. Beyond hedgehogs, Macdonald’s 2016 editorial (36 citations) challenged conservationists to rethink data collection, arguing that technological revolutions must translate into tangible protection. His research has been published in high-impact venues like *Nature*, and his practical, often surprising findings have reshaped how we view garden-level conservation. With a career dedicated to bridging science and action, Macdonald inspires students to tackle overlooked threats to biodiversity.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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