Recorded advertisement calls of male H. versicolor using directional microphones and Solid State Recorders in the field to establish a comprehensive library of bioacoustic data for further research.
Learned RavenPro and Audacity software to investigate consistency of advertisement calls in individual male Eastern Gray Treefrogs (Hyla versicolor) across recapture timelines.
Conducted literature review of works discussing the natural history of H. versicolor, relevant call parameters of Hylid frogs, individuality in vertebrate acoustic communication, and consistency of call versus age in the Banded Wren (Thryothorus pleurostictus).
Utilized binoculars, scopes, and DSLR cameras to observe, identify, and document behavior for over 60 avian species, with a primary focus on the federally endangered Great Lakes Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus).
Collected data for long-term population tracking of federally endangered Great Lakes Piping Plovers.
Utilized online data collection surveys to report Great Lakes Piping Plover abundance, behavior, and apparent predatory/anthropogenic threats.
Promoted the conservation of the unique Waukegan lakefront habitat for the benefit of the endangered Great Lakes Piping Plover and neighboring species through opertunistic public outreach.
Collaborated with federal agencies such as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the United States Geological Survey to prevent the extirpation of the Great Lakes Piping Plover.
Oversaw the development of Great Lakes Piping Plover offspring from eggs to adults.
Maintained records of livestock weight, size, physical condition, treatments received, and dietary intake.
Monitored and maintained Life Sustaining Systems (LSS) ranging in volume from 10 to 85,000 gallons.
Assisted in long-term target training programs with Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera), shovelnose sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus platorynchus), white-spotted and brown-banded bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium plagiosum, C. puctatum), and several stingray species.
Measured, recorded, and interpreted exhibit water parameters, such as pH, alkalinity, general hardness, and concentrations of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, using WaterLink SpinTouch photometer and Google Sheets.
Conducted and presented independent research to propose exhibit updates that reinforce Reiman Aquarium's conservation messaging and scientific communication goals (see below: Future Considerations: Rewilding Weird and Wild 5).
Utilized background in evolutionary biology to educate local community members in order to improve care standards for freshwater and marine fish, invertebrates, and amphibians.
Maintained and monitored the health of aquatic species in both fresh and saltwater systems.
Provided daily care to over 1,000 animals.
Performed routine maintenance on tanks, pumps, filters, and related equipment.
Dosed and administered medications to treat livestock for parasitic, bacterial, and fungal infections.
Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
Conducted additional research outside of work to ensure customers received up-to-date information about animal husbandry.