I am interested in behavioral ecology and how animals utilize the landscape while potentially interacting with humans.

 

Current Research

Bear Behavior, Foraging, & Hibernation Ecology

My thesis research focuses on analyzing American black bears (Ursus americanus) in the Virginia Appalachian Mountains, focusing on behavior, foraging, and hibernation ecology. 

 

Behavior & Foraging Ecology - This research project uses video collars placed on GPS collars of wild bears in the Central Appalachians to study general behavior of the American black bears and detailed foraging and diet.

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Hibernation Ecology - Using video data collected from captive black bears at the Black Bear Research Center on Virginia Tech's campus, this research aims to better understand behavioral changes and timing surrounding hibernation onset and arousal.

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