Research

The WDC encourages and supports a variety of research involving reptiles. We are assisting a number of colleges and universities in their research. Additionally, we have several projects going on at our facility. Right now, our most important project involves the reptile and amphibian survey we are conducting at the Middlefork. A TC-VES (Time Constrained Visual Encounter Survey or "meander survey") has been initiated over the past 5 years in hopes to determine the presence of the eastern massasauga and the blandings turtle. So far, their presence is unknown, however, if it is determined that they are not at this site, we may consider a captive breeding/release program. So far, we have successfully reproduced both species at our facility.

Another very exciting project we are involved with is conducting a radio telemetry project with the Western Fox Snake.  This once common harmless constrictor is now nearly extirpated from our county and there is a large population near Lake Forest.  Unfortunately, this population is found on private land that may be sold and developed.  If this happens, we may find the fox snake extirpated from our county.  By tracking the movements of these animals we can have a better understanding of this snake's natural behavior including their range.  Hopefully, this information will help agencies responsibile for land acquisition to target their fundraising efforts on purchasing this land.  More to come.  Here's a picture of the Curator tracking one of the fox snakes: