Overview
While I am open to a variety of research projects, research in the Stone Lab fall under two broad areas; 1) conservation of reptiles and amphibians, and 2) the influence of reproduction on bone density. Below is a list of recent or ongoing projects. I encourage students who are interested in working in my lab to contact me.
Current Projects
Population Ecology of the Diamondback Terrapin at Wallops Island, VA
We are conducting a long-term study of the diamondback terrapin at near Wallops and Chincoteague Islands, VA. The overall goal of this project is to increase of our understanding of terrapin biology and to understand the threats that terrapin populations face in this region. We have a number of sub-projects that are ongoing. Nesting/Reproductive Ecology Population Size and Trajectory Effects of Road Mortality Influence of Anthropogenic Noise on the Calling Behavior of Anurans Population Ecology of Timber Rattlesnakes at Palmerton, PA The Timber Rattlesnake plays an important ecological role in forested ecosystems of Pennsylvania by serving as a major predator for many species of rodents. The Timber Rattlesnake is currently listed as a “candidate species” in the Commonwealth of PA, which affords them increased protection. This status is a result of the observed declines of rattlesnake populations in the state. This study is important because it will contribute to the broad-scale assessment of Timber rattlesnake populations in the state. Moreover, this study will contribute to our understanding of how habitat degradation and heavy metal contamination influences the biology of snakes. This study is located at the Lehigh Gap Nature Center; an area being actively restored after experiencing years of habitat degradation due to zinc smelting operations. We suspect that Timber Rattlesnakes are being exposed to heavy metals by consuming rodents that have been exposed to contaminated soil and food. Therefore, this study will help us to understand the effects of heavy metals in the landscape and its presumed effects on the biology of timber rattlesnakes. Additionally, this study will help us to better understand how snakes are responding to habitat restoration and will help to elucidate best management practices for future restoration efforts. |
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