Uses of the MVZ bird collection have changed over the years with advances in research methodologies. Although traditional studies of morphology, geographic variation, and molt continue to make use of the skin collections, more recent uses have focused on destructive sampling of skins for biochemical (e.g., DNA), stable isotope, and contaminant analyses. Requests for such sampling are reviewed carefully and critically by MVZ Curators. Primary uses of the skeletal collections are for comparative study of zooarchaeological or paleontological material, while the anatomical collections are used for systematic, morphological (including CT scanning), and parasitological studies.

The egg collection has been used historically to study the affects of the pesticide DDT on eggshell thinning in birds (e.g., Peregrine Falcons). More recently, the availability of digital photographs of our egg and nest specimens has greatly increased their accessibility for research and education. Researchers have used the digital photographs to study the evolution of egg shape in birds, and to investigate egg recognition by hosts of brood parasites. Additionally, DNA sequences obtained from plant materials in nests of birds from the San Francisco Bay Area have been used to identify plant communities for habitat restoration efforts.