and amphibian ecology and gave me hands-on experience with reptiles and amphibians. I got to learn about the habitats, feeding habits, identification characteristics, and more about many of the reptile and amphibian species. Some species I worked with were Black Rat Snakes, Ribbon snakes, and Water snakes. I also worked with frogs (spring peepers, leopard frogs), turtles (map turtles and snapping turtles), and salamanders (blue spotted salamanders, red spotted salamanders).​

​

I think that one of the most memorable moments during my time at QUBS was when I held my first snake. I admit, I was really nervous and somewhat freaked out, but I'm glad I was given the chance to handle these creatures. I guess I

​was still holding on to the stereotype that snakes are dangerous, and that if I held one it would bite me or something. But when I held my first snake, which was a ribbon snake, I totally forgot why I thought snakes were scary. I was amazed at how strong these species are, as I could feel the muscle of the snakes body contracting as it moved in my hands. Now, I understand why people may be scared of snakes, but by working with them I came to appreciate the real beauty of these specimens. Working with snakes really showed me that there is nothing to be afraid of, and these snakes are just trying to live in the world, like us. It really got me thinking about the conservation of these creatures, and that we shouldn't be so quick to judge them.

​

I also enjoyed working with new people at QUBS, and I had the privilege of being taught by Dr. Steve Lougheed and Dr. Greg Bulte. I got to meet a number of new people, made a bunch of new friends, and was able to learn about reptiles and amphibians in an amazing place.

​

More experiences will be on the way soon!