I see these magnificent shells littered on the ground – in the woods, on lawns, everywhere. It’s the shell of the Giant African Land Snail. In Tanzania, they are native – living in terrestrial habitats or on land. But back in the United States they are an invasive species. Not only do they devour vegetation of most [...]

It’s the Rainy Season now in Tanzania. I’ve been told that it should be coming to a close soon.  I clearly underestimated how wet it would be. The vegetation is so much more green and lush from before. The roads are bumpier, rocky and fill with large gaping crevices. Streets I’ve traveled dozens of times [...]

I am back and ready to work. Kind of. LOL, this heat and humidity is kicking my butt. What was I thinking coming back in the rainy season? Oh, yeah, I gotta know how the different seasonal patterns may affect natural history of the Pouched Rats. My time has been on getting the necessary approvals [...]

My hands are full lately, as you can tell. Here I am checking on one of my Ghana Pouched Rats. Just as adorbs, but I am sure very different than my Tanzania Pouched Rats – in look and behavior. Notice how I’m NOT in this picture with this sleepy-head rat.  I’m interested in working with [...]

I have been pre-occupied with paperwork and approvals to get my rats to Oklahoma so that I can get started with my laboratory studies on behavior and genetics.  Fingers crossed (and prayers solicited) for a safe and uneventful trip for my rats and the courier. UPDATE: Rats are NOT en route. While I was sleeping [...]

Originally posted at Urban Science Adventures! © I took these photos at Litszinger Road Ecology Center (an Urban Nature Reserve) spring 2006. Two Tom Turkeys (males) facing off. Two Tom Turkeys trying to impress a Hen Turkey (female). Can you see her? She’s much smaller and to the right of the males. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

In all of the excitement and concern in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, many people’s attentions have turned to rats? So What Happened to All of the Subway Rats? The Ratpocalypse Has Been Canceled Did NYC rats survive hurricane Sandy? And one that hits a little closer to home: It spurred some comments, mostly tongue-in-cheek [...]

Early today, I Skyped in and gave a quick presentation to University of Louisville BIO 263 Environmental Biolog students.  My friend and colleague Dr. Tommy Parker is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Urban Wildlife Research Lab. The course focuses on the relationships between humans and the environment. Topics include ecology, population biology, modifications [...]