Dana continued rattlesnake work at our Osoyoos study site, following on the previous studies by Emily and Jared.  Dr. Christine Bishop (Environment & Climate Change Canada) has been collaborating at this site with our lab for over 20 years, making it an exceptional long-term study site.

Dana’s thesis focused on the behaviour and habitat selection of gravid (‘pregnant’) rattlesnakes, particularly during the later stages of their embryo development.  She provided much-needed information on the location and characteristics of ‘rookeries’.  These are traditional sites used by females during the all-important reproductive phase of their life histories.

Christine was co-supervisor of Dana’s thesis; The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (Osoyoos Indian Band) provided awesome support of our work in this area.