15 hours coursework, 35 hours research
Focus: Rattlesnake Biology, Rocky Mountain Ecology, Scientific Process
Cost: $500
Day 1: Arrive in Hamilton, Montana
• Get to know your instructor team
• Learn about research projects you’ll be participating in this week with the Bitterroot Science
Center
Days 2-3: Field Research (Reptile ecology)
• Learn about local reptile species from experts in the field
• Conduct herpetology field surveys
• Use radio telemetry to locate our study animals and track their movement
• Collect tissue samples and observe snake venom collection
Days 4-5: Lab Research
• Analyze snake venom and genetic profiles
• Assist with surgical insertion of radio trackers in snakes
• Collect snake gut contents and identify ingested prey species
Days 6-7: Field Research (Mammal ecology)
• Learn about local mammal species from experts in the field
• Identify a variety of game species and their activities based on tracks (bear, cougar, elk, big
horn sheep)
• Track animals, collect tissue and other data for population analysis
• Explore a bear den
Day 8: Raft the Bitterroot River
• Enjoy spectacular Montana scenery and try your hand at fly fishing
• Celebrate your completed course
Day 9: Depart Missoula
You will be re-routed to the Bitter Root Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) for payment processing. Your donation still directly supports the Bitterroot Community Science Center.
