Susan Margulis

Dr. Susan Margulis is a primatologist, focusing primarily on applied, zoo-based research questions. Her work includes behavioral observation, hormonal assessments (using non-invasively collected fecal samples, which are in ample supply in the zoo), and longitudinal behavioral monitoring. Recent work has included the evolution of color-change in white-cheeked gibbons, the effect of visitors on the activity of sharks and rays at the Aquarium of Niagara, and behavioral changes following group changes in gorillas at the Buffalo Zoo. Most of her research students collect data at the Buffalo Zoo – a short walk from campus. Many research projects are student-initiated, and encompass a wide range of questions and species, many outside of the primate realm. Dr. Margulis began her career as a zoo keeper (Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse NY), zoo researcher (Brookfield Zoo in Chicago), and zoo primate curator (Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago) before arriving at Canisius in 2009. Involving students in all aspects of zoo animal management and research is critical and has been tremendously important not just to her students, but to herself as well. Dr. Margulis travels with students regularly, as part of her zoo exhibitry course (usually 5 zoos over 4 days).

Awards

• Kenneth L. Koessler Distinguished Faculty Award, Canisius University (2024)

• Penny Bernstein Distinguished Teaching Award, Animal Behavior Society (2023)

• Exceptional Service Award, Animal Behavior Society (2020)

• Robert O. Wagner Professional Development Award, Association of Zoos and Aquariums (2008)

• Canisius University Arts and Sciences Faculty Scholarship Award (2017)

Publications

Margulis, SW, and Halfdanardottir, H. 2021. Hormones and color change in female white cheeked gibbons, Nomascus leucogenys. International Journal of Primatology, 42: 201-219.

Miller, M, Robinson, C, and Margulis, SW. 2021. Behavioral implications of the complete absence of guests on a Zoo-housed gorilla troop. Animals, 11: 1346, https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051346.

Guntrum, EB, Haley, AM, Margulis, SW. 2021. Characterization of cycling in a hoolock gibbon (Hoolock leuconedys). Folia Primatologica. DOI: 10.1159/000519077 

LeFauve, M.L. and Margulis, S.W. 2022. Chemical contraceptive impacts on cyclic progesterone and sexual behavior in zoo-housed Western lowland gorillas. American Journal of Primatology. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajp.23418

Galante, J. and Margulis, S.W. 2022. Comparing data collection tools for zoo management decision-making: a case study examining behavioral measures of Humboldt Penguin bond strength.  Animals, 12, 3031. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12213031