Data Science Initiative Speaker Series:
Speaker: Prof. Thea Kristensen (Biology)
Title: Using Community Observations to Ask Questions about Massachusetts Black Bears
Abstract:
MassMammals is a participatory science initiative that focuses on learning about mammals across Massachusetts. Within this project, MassBears has been collecting reports of American black bear sightings from community members since 2019. These observations offer valuable insights into bear activity locations, behaviors, and the details surrounding human-bear encounters.
In this talk, Prof. Kristensen will delve into the utilization of community-contributed data to explore wildlife ecology amid increasing human presence. She will discuss the findings of a recent article published in Scientific Reports and introduce the overarching MassMammals initiative, along with ongoing projects such as MassCoyotes. This work exemplifies the power of collaboration between researchers, Amherst College students, K-12 students, and community members in generating ecological knowledge, engaging the public with local wildlife, and enhancing our understanding of human-wildlife coexistence.
Refreshments: Light refreshments will be provided before the talk.
Audience: Open to all campus members
Category: Academic
