MS Student
Broadly, I am interested in carnivore behavior in human-dominated landscapes. This involves an understanding of anthropogenic impacts on carnivore ecological principles, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and land use and management decisions. Combined, these research avenues shed light on how we can protect, conserve, and utilize the services carnivores provide. My thesis involves analyzing mountain lion diet, space use, and energetics in California’s San Francisco North Bay. Much remains unknown of mountain lions in this urban system as the complex fragmented landscape has altered mountain lion behavior with insufficient information pertaining to local ecology and habits. I seek to assist in gaining a better understanding of mountain lion ecology to inform management decisions and educate the community to promote coexistence and long-term conservation of mountain lions, as well as their prey and habitats.
Education
BS: Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences, Paul Smith’s College, Paul Smiths, NY
BENSON LAB 