Megapode Mound: the Bird-Sauna

a lecture and installation project with Global Forest

In early May, Dr. Wasser participated in Vogelklang Soundcamp in Germany’s Black Forest, an event organized by the art and science non-profit, Global Forest e.V. The annual event, Vogelklang, brings together artists and scientists interested in birds and ecology for a weekend of exhibitions, performances, nature walks and lectures.

Jeremy lectured on temperature regulation and metabolic physiology of birds and mammals and introduced his audience to the megapodes. These turkey-sized birds from Australasia do not build a conventional nest but instead, build a sand and debris mound where the eggs are heated by the decomposition of the surrounding organic material.  

He gave a second lecture on the history, folklore and physiology of the sauna to introduce the installation project/performance “Megapode Mound-the Bird Sauna.” A collaboratively built "sweat lodge" was then constructed as a geodesic dome based on both the oldest principles of sauna construction and the unique "mound nests" of megapodes. The sauna was heated to 130 F (55 C) with hot stones allowing participants to enjoy a sweat! Jeremy looks forward to bringing “Medapode Mound” to Joshua Tree, California in Fall 2024.