SARAH E. MILOSKI

M.S. Candidate

Department of Biological Sciences

Marshall University

Miloski@marshall.edu

sarahmiloski@yahoo.com

Undergraduate Education: B.S. Environmental Science and Biology 2008

Concentration: Terrestrial Ecology Minor: Earth Science

State University of New York College At Brockport, Brockport, New York

Thesis Topic: Movement patterns and artificial arboreal cover use of green salamanders, Aneides aeneus.

Research Abstract:

Global amphibian declines have spawned a need for amphibian monitoring studies using standardized techniques. Monitoring efforts that incorporate standardized sampling techniques are critical for early detection of population declines. The Green Salamander (Aneides aeneus) is a declining plethodontid (lungless) salamander that is associated with rock outcrops and arboreal habitat. The unique habitat requirements of this highly terrestrial species make Green Salamander populations particularly susceptible to habitat perturbations. Although primarily associated with rock outcrops, Green Salamander morphology and ecology suggest an arboreal lifestyle and indicate that Green Salamanders may be highly mobile. High mobility has important implications for habitat management, particularly as pertaining to land surrounding rock outcrops that harbor this species. However, few studies have accurately addressed plethodontid movement patterns, which are fundamental to understanding the ecology of a species and provide vital information for conservation initiatives. Thus, I am currently investigating Green Salamander movement patterns at Kanawha State Forest, Charleston, West Virginia. Specifically, my objectives are to 1) use pigment powder to quantify daily movement patterns and 2) assess the efficiency of using artificial cover (i.e., burlap) in Green Salamander monitoring protocols. Fluorescent pigment powder tracking is an effective, non-invasive method of tracking amphibians that involves using a ultra-violet light to illuminate an individual’s path. Burlap bands were attached to trees within the study area and surveyed for Green Salamanders seeking artificial refuge. Preliminary observations from this study include a maximum distance traveled by an individual of 580 cm out of 22 tracked individuals. Four individuals used artificial cover throughout 14 surveys. Information gathered from this study is important because it will shed light on plethodontid movement in general, while providing information for effective management of Green Salamander habitat.

About Me:

I am from New York’s Long Island and always enjoyed being outside and exploring the environment. I am interested in wildlife biology and conservation. I went to undergraduate college in western New York for Environmental Science and Biology. While there, I was able to gain memorable field experiences that fueled my desire of pursuing an advanced degree specializing in herpetofauna. I am currently pursuing a Masters of Science in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in herpetology at Marshall University under the direction of Dr. Thomas K. Pauley.