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USDA - APHIS - Wildlife Damage

National Wildlife Research Center NWRC)

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photo of Dr. Toni Piaggio

Dr. Antoinette J. Piaggio,
Research Molecular Biologist

Dr Antoinette J. Piaggio is employed by the USDA APHIS Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) in Fort Collins, CO. Her research studies focus on developing genetic approaches to inform wildlife damage management efforts. Population-level investigations can determine geographical boundaries of populations, gene flow between populations (population connectivity), and genetic diversity within populations. Phylogenetic studies can test hypotheses of taxonomic definitions and evolutionary relationships. Research data gathered in any of these areas can enhance effectiveness of management efforts. Because wildlife genetics data can elucidate population dynamics in host populations, photo of Dr. Piaggio with vampire batthey also may be useful in the management of wildlife diseases.

Through her work, continuing education, and professional contacts, Dr. Piaggio stays current with the latest developments in her field, ensuring that the NWRC wildlife genetics lab will always be a leader in the use of exciting, cutting-edge tools and techniques and the application of robust scientific methods for the investigation of wildlife-human conflicts. Lab results will allow wildlife managers not only to use the best genetic tools available but also to maintain genetic diversity and evolutionary potential of the wildlife species under investigation.

Expertise Keywords

Genetics, forensics

Taxonomic Groups of Interest

Bats, coyotes, wolves, mountain beavers, raccoons, beavers, deer, invasive species, avian influenza, avian blood parasites

Current Research

  • Investigation population connectivity of Columbia white-tailed deer in Oregon
  • Aiding WS Operations wolf investigations through the application of a canid genetics database to identify wolf hybrids  (wolf/dog or wolf/coyote)
  • Examining population genetics of raccoons in areas of rabies outbreaks
  • Sequencing avian influenza samples to infer an avian influenza phylogeny for the United States
  • Conducting genetic analyses of rats that invade islands
  • Comparing vampire bat population dynamics in areas where rabies is prevalent and in areas where rabies is uncommon
  • Conducting genetic analyses of Mexican wolves, mountain beaver, and beavers

  • Products/Techniques Developed or Tested

    • Forensic investigations
    • Species identification from fecal, hair, saliva, etc.
    • Individual animal identification from fecal, hair, saliva, etc.
    • Microsatellite marker development for multiple species
    • Population genetics studies
    • Phylogenetic studies

    Education

    • Ph.D., University of Colorado Boulder, CO
    • M.S., San Francisco State University SF, CA
    • B.A. Mills College, Oakland C

    Previous Positions

    • Research Assistant, University of Colorado
    • Temporary Biologist, Colorado Division of Wildlife
    • Research Assistant, San Francisco State University
    • United States Forest Service seasonal employee

    International Experience

    • Mexico (vampire bats)
    • China (Avian Influenza)

    Contact Information

    Information on NWRC Genetics Research and Publications

    Last Modified: September 26, 2011