Posted on January 31, 2017
Robert Isdell is currently pursuing a M.Sc. at the College of William and Mary where he is using spatial models to assess the impacts of landscape level factors on the distribution of the diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin). Terrapins are subject to numerous threats in VA waters (drowning in crab pots, habitat destruction, synanthropic nest predators, boat propellers), and as such are listed as a species of special concern. The goal of this research to inform scientists, land managers, and policy makers on how these threats are impacting an integral species in the Chesapeake Bay.