Past research projects
See "publications" for my current work.
Texas A&M University: Baseline Data on Overwintering Bats and Roosts in Texas There were two main goals of my project: (1) To model the distribution and abundance of overwintering bats in Texas and (2) To model the spread of Pseudogymnoascus destructans and identify white-nose syndrome susceptible species. In order to complete my objectives, I gathered information on bat species distribution, relative abundance, and structural and environmental characteristics at all sites (e.g., caves, bridges, culverts) surveyed across Texas. I swabbed bats to test for the presence of Pseudogymnoascus destructans. These data were ananlyzed and published in several peer-reviewed articles. I completed 4 years of winter surveys. For more information, please check out my project facebook page: @texaswinterbats. Check out my Publication page for any recent publications related to this project. |
Bucknell University: Physiological Consequences of White-nose Syndrome What are the physiological consequences of surviving infection with Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungal pathogen that causes white-nose syndrome? In order to investigate my question, I collected data on wound-healing, reproduction, and metabolic rates of captive little brown myotis (Myotis lucifugus), both uninfected and infected by the fungal pathogen, white-nose syndrome. First year preliminary results can be viewed Here. Results from the metabolic study are published (see Publications). |
Ripon College: Fecal Testosterone Metabolites, Begging Behavior and Growth of Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis) Nestlings. How do fecal testosterone metabolites affect growth and begging behavior of Eastern Bluebird nestlings? In order to investigate my question, I collected fecal samples from nestlings, recorded begging behavior, and collected growth measures. I found that testosterone, as an anabolic steroid, was acting directly on the tissue to increase growth at the box level. Results presented can be viewed Here. |