Plains and Great Basin spadefoots topic of Feb. 18 Werner Wildlife Series

The February edition of the Werner Wildlife Series presents “Plains Spadefoots and Great Basin Spadefoots in Natrona County” by Dylan Hicks. The presentation will take place Tuesday, Feb. 18, beginning at 6 p.m.

Hicks, a recent graduate of Casper College, received their AS in wildlife and fisheries biology and management. Currently, they are working on their BS in zoology at the University of Wyoming. Hicks’ research projects focus on the habitat and distribution of two species of concern: the Plains spadefoot toad, Spea bombifrons, and the Great Basin spadefoot toad, Spea intermontana.

“Through field surveys and environmental data collection, Dylan’s work highlights the challenges and discoveries of studying these elusive amphibians in arid environments,” said Dalene Hodnett, director of museums. “My talk will delve into the unique adaptations of spadefoots, the importance of ephemeral habitats, and the critical role of conservation research in protecting these remarkable species,” added Hicks.

The presentation is free, family-friendly, and open to the public. It will take place in the museum’s Africa-Arctic Room. For more information, call 307-235-2108.

The Werner Wildlife Museum, located off the Casper College campus at 405 E. 15th Street, is free and open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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