LDWF Internship - Using satellite telemetry data to investigate seasonal movements and habitat preference of reddish egrets

Location: Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, Grand Chenier, Louisiana

Supervisor: Phillip Vasseur

Funding Source: State Wildlife Grant and Rockefeller Trust Fund

Number of Interns: 1

Background: The Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens; REEG) is listed as critically imperiled in Louisiana and vulnerable to extirpation according to the state’s Wildlife Action Plan. It is the rarest of the egrets and herons in North America and is a species of conservation concern throughout much of its range. The number of breeding REEG has declined over the past decade in Louisiana, which currently comprises an estimated 4% of the total U.S. breeding population. Biologists with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge initiated a REEG research project to study various aspects of the species’ biology, nesting behavior, and habitat use to prioritize conservation actions. Beginning in 2016, satellite transmitters were deployed on several adults to better understand their survival, movements, and habitat use. The GPS data collected from satellite transmitters will enable researchers, for example, to identify important stopover sites as well as critical wintering and foraging areas.

Project Scope: The student intern will primarily be responsible for maintaining a database of GPS locations and using GIS software and other computer programs to map areas utilized by Reddish Egrets. Mapping will consist of generating polygons to delineate natural wetlands and manmade (i.e., dredge spoil) habitats typically used as foraging sites. In addition, the intern will evaluate the GPS data collected during the breeding season to estimate nesting activity from initiation to fledging. The student intern will preferably be proficient with Microsoft Excel and have some experience with Google Earth or ArcGIS software. While this internship will primarily be conducted in an office setting, there will be several opportunities for the intern to assist with field projects taking place on Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge. Therefore, a successful candidate must be willing to work long and irregular hours in extreme heat and humidity and be able to tolerate mosquitoes and other biting insects while working in the field. At the end of the summer, the student intern will compose a summary report and will present a scientific poster at the Louisiana Association of Professional Biologists Symposium in August.

Timing: 11 May – 14 August 2020 (flexible beginning and end dates)

Housing: Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge will provide housing

Compensation: College credit will be contingent upon university approval. Students receive financial compensation at the rate of $10/hr. 

Application deadline: April 3, 2020

Send cover letter and resume to:

Phillip Vasseur

Email: pvasseur@wlf.la.gov

Direct questions to: Phillip Vasseur @ 337-491-2593