Irynej Skira (1950-2005): A scientific life

Abstract

The unexpected death of wildlife biologist, Dr Irynej Skira, at the age of 54 in February 2005, sent shockwaves through the scientific community. His longitudinal study of Short-tailed Shearwaters, Puffinus tenuirostris, also known as muttonbirds, was about to receive international recognition while his recent second marriage appeared to open up a new chapter in his personal life. Who was this remarkable man, what was his contribution to science and what is his legacy? This article draws upon the funeral notes and memories of hisfamily, friends and collegues, to provide an overview of his personal and professional life. It shows how his two periods of fieldwork on Macquarie Island developed his interest in wildlife biology and how he extended it to assume responsibility for the longitudinal study of shearwaters. It explores his particular contribution to the study over nearly three decades and then discusses his wider contribution to conservation and of wildlife in Tasmania. The article concludes with an assessment of his legacy.