Monitoring Diverse Species in Lawrence, KS

This study explores the use of a trail camera to monitor wildlife activity near a freshwater pond in Lawrence, Kansas. The research aims to document species diversity, behavioral patterns, and temporal activity near a semi-rural aquatic habitat over a six-week period during the spring season. Using 24/7 surveillance, I will capture photos and video clips of the local wildlife. Species I hope to identify include raccoons (Procyon lotor), great blue herons (Ardea herodias), and coyotes (Canis latrans), and red tail hawks (Buteo jamaicensis). The data may inform local conservation strategies by identifying critical habitat use zones and movement corridors. This research hopes to demonstrate the importance of accessible, low-cost technology in ecological field studies and emphasizes the dynamic interactions between land-based wildlife and freshwater ecosystems in temperate regions.