Ian Newton is best known for his work on the ecology and conservation of birds. His 27-year study of a sparrowhawk population in Scotland is the longest running and most detailed study of any bird of prey. Ian is also renowned for his early work on finches, which revealed much about their feeding requirements, preferences and habits.
His research has produced far-reaching results of fundamental significance to evolutionary biology. For example, Ian’s studies have revealed the effects of pesticides and pollutants on bird populations. He has also looked at issues such as reproductive success and monitored the effects of changes in population size and food supply.