Amanda Spriggs

Hometown: Logan, WV

Age: 23

Undergraduate Degree: Biology, University of Charleston

Thesis Topic: Distribution and Status of the Northern Leopard Frog, Rana pipens

Bill Sutton, 2004

Project Abstract:

The Northern Leopard Frog, Rana pipiens, is listed as a species of concern by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. This species is not a common frog in West Virginia and more information is needed to better under its status in the state. Throughout the world, all amphibians are experiencing declines, including R. pipiens in West Virginia. Reasons for these declines may be pesticide use, disease, habitat destruction, and over-collection. Over-collection has probably occurred because this species is used frequently in laboratories for embryological, physiological, and anatomical studies. Due to these activities, leopard frog populations have probably declined. I propose to visit historic sites of R. pipiens throughout West Virginia in order to determine the current distribution and status of this species. I will also ascertain if there are any correlations between environmental variables and the current status and distribution of leopard frog populations. The results of this study will provide needed information to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and fill in present gaps in the upcoming Amphibian and Reptile Atlas in West Virginia.

About Me!

Animals and wildlife (those scaly and those not) have been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I was always getting in trouble for bringing home every stray animal or any creepy, crawly thing I could fit into my pocket. It’s great that I get to work in Dr. Pauley’s lab now because I get to do what I love, without being reprimanded. I am very interested in conservation biology and hope to one day work with the conservation of sea turtles. There are also several other things that I love to do. Tennis is a very big part of my life. I began playing when I was ten years old and I recently just ended my collegiate career where I played for four years at the University of Charleston. Go Eagles! My favorite things to do in my spare time are to go to the movies, and read the Harry Potter books. I have probably read each one about three or four times, but I always find something different each time I read them again. Other than that, I just like to spend time with my family, friends and loved ones.

This is me

My boyfriend, Tony and I

Me and my mom

Erica and I taking a break after a long tennis match

Senior Night for the UC Women’s Tennis Team

Some of the UC Men’s and Women’s Tennis Team…being goofy

UC Women’s Tennis Team

Tony and I doing a little sightseeing in NY