Volunteer field assistants needed Behavioral ecology of snake/small mammal interactions
Location: Blue Oak Ranch Reserve, east of San Jose, California (www.blueoakranchreserve.org), and Desert Studies Center, Mojave Desert, California (http://biology.fullerton.edu/dsc/). Dates: Mid-May through beginning of August Job description: The Clark lab at San Diego State University is seeking committed, motivated individuals to assist in a behavioral ecology study on predator-prey interactions between rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus, Crotalus cerastes, Crotalus scutulatus) and small mammals (California ground squirrels, Speromphilus beecheyi, and kangaroo rats Dipodomys spp.). Field assistants will live and work at both the Blue Oak Ranch Reserve field station in the Coast Range (from ~May 20th to July), and the Desert Studies Center in the Mojave Desert (from July to ~August 10th). Assistants will help with capture and radio-telemetry of rattlesnakes, mark and recapture of small mammals, and behavioral observations of both rattlesnakes and small mammals in the field. This a great opportunity to gain experience with small mammal trapping, marking and handling of animals, radio telemetry, GPS, behavioral observation, videography techniques, and other basic behavior and ecology field techniques. Qualifications: No experience necessary. On-the-job training will be provided, but priority will be given to those with prior field experience. Must be able to hike long distances over rough terrain carrying heavy equipment, conduct patient observations for long periods of time (up to 10 hours/day), and live in a remote wilderness area with primitive facilities. Must be able to work and live comfortably in variable environmental conditions including cold/hot weather and in tick/mosquito habitats. Must be passionate about science, hardworking, independent, good- natured, love working in the outdoors, and able to share close living quarters with other researchers. Room and board (research facility fees and food) are provided at both field stations. Sleeping facilities at Blue Oak Ranch Reserve are outdoor tents. Application: To apply, please send a cover letter and resume (including contact information for three references) detailing your experience with field biology, outdoor skills, and animal behavior to Bree Putman at: bree...@yahoo.com. Applications must be received by March 15th for full consideration. For more information about research in the Clark Lab, see http://www.bio.sdsu.edu/pub/clark/Site/Home.html. For more information about this project, you can contact Bree Putman at bree...@yahoo.com or Rulon Clark at rcl...@sciences.sdsu.edu
