Summer Student Blog 2019

Wow!  What a long, hot, fun summer it has been collecting hair samples for our population estimate! We all wanted to take a minute to say a number of thank yous to everyone who has been involved in this project in one way or another.  Thank you to our amazing field crew (Cesar, Jac, Eleanor, … Continue reading Finishing up field season

Observing wildlife is one of my favorite pastimes, so imagine my excitement when I joined the field team! When it comes to bear research, though, one must have realistic expectations: bears look cuddly and all, but it’s probably not a good idea to saunter up to them and ask for a group selfie. They would … Continue reading Zooming in

For the past three weeks I have been transitioning in and out of the field, which has taught me a bit about myself and the woods. For example, I really dislike the smell of caramel oil-soaked rags.  I also love the outdoors. Being able to go out into the field and explore the New England … Continue reading Magic of the Forest

I had never seen a bear before––at least in person. Growing up in Canada near Banff National Park, I had heard bear encounter stories within the community, but I never experienced my own encounter. Their mystique grew greater as I became a part of the bear project near the end of the school year. I … Continue reading Cubs!

Wow, what an incredible 3 weeks it has been! I can hardly believe it’s been that long already. I guess it’s true what they say – time flies when you’re having fun! And I have been having a TON of fun. Going into my very first field season this year, I was a little bit … Continue reading New to Field Work

After spending a whole week out in the field, the first thought - and for a while, the only thought - that comes to mind is, “wow, I’m exhausted.” Spending eight plus hours every day hiking through the forests of Western MA and searching for corrals nesting deep in the foliage can take a lot … Continue reading Rewards and Challenges in the First Week of Field Work

We have had lots of excitement about this project over the last couple of weeks!  During the week of May 20th, over 25 members of Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife joined us in setting up the hair corrals!  We now have about 120 sites set up across the state. Last week, Kathy and I each worked … Continue reading Set up