1. LEARNING AND PERFORMING WILDLIFE RESEARCH THROUGH THE MUSKRAT
Anthony Veroline (Leann Kanda)
Departments of Biology / Environmental Studies & Sciences, Ithaca College
Movement activity of semi-aquatic muskrat is largely dictated by predator avoidance, yet an array of variables may influence muskrat activity. Over the course of a summer season (May 2010-October 2010) we explored muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) activity in relation to environmental variables, specifically time of day, temperature, nocturnal light, and precipitation. We live-trapped, radio-tagged, and then tracked muskrat at the Cornell Experimental Research Ponds in Lansing, NY. We later identified each telemetry location as in or out of the burrow, and its distance from the burrow. We then generated logistic regression models to investigate potential relationships between muskrat activity and our select environmental variables. Muskrat were active throughout the 24-hr period but were 1.5 times as likely to be out of their burrows at night than at other times. Animals also tended to reduce movement on particularly hot days and cool
nights during the summer season. Although our work did not
uncover any new findings concerning muskrat activity patterns,
we were able to support past research on Ondatra zibethicus
activity in relation to environmental variables. The skills that I
garnered during the experience, including radio-telemetry use,
animal-handling proficiency, and familiarity with statistical
model creation, will likely be employed throughout my
professional wildlife career.