Introduction

Wildlife Biology Interns have the opportunity to work in many fields of study in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Why did you want to become an intern?

I wanted to learn more about the flora and fauna of the Santa Monica Mountains. My internship consisted of assisting with an ongoing reptile and amphibian diversity monitoring program in the Santa Monica Mountains region under the guidance of Gary Busteed. I monitored pitfall traps; handled and marked reptiles, amphibians, and small rodents; and did some data entry.

Which field(s) interest you?

Behavioral ecology (especially reptiles and amphibians), population biology, applied ecology, and conservation biology.

How much time did you commit to your internship?

I spent approximately one month of full time work on this internship.

Tell us about your college career.

I am currently working toward my MS in Biology at Cal State Northridge. My thesis is on microhabitat selection and its relationship to social aggregation during periods of inactivity in western banded geckos (Coleonyx variegatus).

What have you gained from your experience as an intern?

My experience working with Gary and Brian has helped to familiarize me with the herpetofauna of the Santa Monica Mountains region

Do you feel your goals for this internship have been met?

Absolutely – this was a very valuable experience for me, not to mention fun!