Program/Event
Arts and Research Showcase 2024
Abstract
Researching snakes in Jefferson County, Kentucky is important to help wildlife managers conserve snake species while also mitigating human-wildlife conflict. Using citizen science data, we can determine where snakes have been seen in the past, and then use that data to predict venomous and nonvenomous presence throughout the county and how their mode of transportation impacts snake presence. We compiled research-grade citizen science data from two websites: iDigBio and iNaturalist. Each species was then classified by their mode of transportation (terrestrial, aquatic, fossorial) and as either venomous or nonvenomous. We created a preliminary species distribution model using BioClim data to predict where snakes (regardless of species) are currently found in Louisville. Our findings can support snake conservation and local wildlife education in Jefferson County. Increasing awareness of snakes in the local area can help both human and snake populations by avoiding negative human interactions with snakes and helping wildlife managers conserve snakes where they perform important ecological roles.
Recommended Citation
Bridges, Sarah E.; Harmel, Mallory; and Pigg, Rachel
(2024)
"A Scaly Science: Using citizen science to predict where snakes are found in Louisville,"
The Cardinal Edge: Vol. 2:
Iss.
2, Article 24.
Available at:
https://ir.library.louisville.edu/tce/vol2/iss2/24
