Malotka gains field research experience with snakes, lampreys

Senior environmental biology major Scott Malotka has found plenty of opportunities to work with professors in field research. Last summer, Malotka and Dr. Phil Cochran performed radio-tracking of bullsnakes for the Minnesota DNR at the Weaver Dunes north of Winona. This fall, Malotka earned internship credit with the biology department for processing the collected data. The project will contribute to a greater understanding of the snakes’ activity patterns and use of habitat throughout the year.

Malotka also accompanied Dr. Cochran to Indiana to collect data on chestnut lampreys for Trout Unlimited, and he was hired for the summer by Saint Mary’s Geospatial Services division — yet another way for a student to gain professional experience.