Eberhard Gwinner

Eberhard (Ebo) Gwinner was a German ornithologist and chronobiologist. Following his doctorate in classical ethology, further formative experiences included postdoctoral training in biological rhythms and behavioral endocrinology. Gwinner combined these backgrounds to coin his trademark, integrative research on biological timekeeping under both natural and experimental conditions. He is most recognized for his seminal work and persistently authoritative monography on circannual rhythms. Gwinner also elaborated contributions of reproductive and adrenocortical hormones to avian annual cycle behavior, and his studies of multiple pacemaker interactions and the role of melatonin contributed majorly to understanding circadian systems. Gwinner pioneered many fields that unfolded beyond his lifetime, for example, research on light pollution and urbanization in wild organisms. Across subjects, much of his research revolved around bird migration, a topic that fascinated him throughout his lifetime and that he studied in daring and persistent experiments across continents.

keywords: Circannual, Circadian, Multi-pacemaker, Internal resonance, Melatonin, Migration, Behavior, Bird