March Newsletter from Tarleton Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society

By Gracie Triplett | Web Manager, Tarleton State Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society

March was an eventful month for Tarleton State’s Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society with many great learning opportunities and eventful experiences.  

The Society will be hosting their biggest event of the year, Tarleton Outdoors, on April 26 at Stephenville City Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. This event highlights community outreach and aims to educate the community about the world around us through educational booths and fun activities.

Trash Pickup

On March 3, a dedicated group of members participated in the first trash-pickup event of the semester organized by the Society. During the event, participants walked a total of two miles, making their way to the designated “Adopt a Highway” sign and collecting litter along the route. Upon completing the cleanup, the collected trash was gathered at the “Adopt a Highway” sign, marking the completion of their efforts. The event represented the Society’s ongoing efforts to support wildlife conservancy.  

Students stand on the side of the road underneath an "Adopt a Highway Next 2 Miles TSU Student Wildlife Society" sign with trash they had picked up.
Society members stand at the “Adopt a Highway” sign with trash they had picked up along their route.

General Meeting with Texas A&M PhD Student Dylan Stewart

On March 11, the Tarleton Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society hosted Dylan Stewart, a PhD student from Texas A&M University, for an informative presentation. Stewart, whose research primarily focuses on big-horned sheep, created and shared a presentation outlining his journey in graduate school and offered insights into his academic and professional experiences. In addition to sharing his research, Stewart provided thoughtful tips on navigating the graduate school application process, securing funding, and making the most of academic opportunities.  

Man stands at the front of a classroom pointing at a projected PowerPoint while students sit in the first few rows of chairs listening.
Dylan Stewart, Texas A&M PhD student, speaks about his career at a general meeting on March 11.

Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch Quail Banding Trips

On March 3, 11, and 12, members of the Society were given the opportunity to engage in hands-on fieldwork with Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch. They participated in various activities such as quail trapping, banding, weighing, and aging. During these trips, students gained practical experience, and an in-depth understanding of the essential techniques used in the field to monitor quail populations and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts. Under the guidance of experienced technicians and wildlife professionals, students learned the intricacies of safely trapping quail using various techniques, while utilizing the best practices to ensure the wellbeing of the birds.  

A group of students stand with a group of adults in front of a brown wall with photos of birds and wildlife.
Students from the Society stand alongside members from Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch after a banding trip.

Upcoming Events

As we approach the end of March, the last meeting of the month will be March 25 at 6 p.m. in Autry 113.  

Two meetings will be held in April – April 8 and 22 at 6 p.m. in Autry 113.  

Tarleton Outdoors will be held on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Stephenville City Park.  

To stay up to date on events happening with the Society, follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Instagram: @tsuwildlife

Facebook: Tarleton State University Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society

For more information on how to join or ways to get involved, please contact: gracie.triplett@go.tarleton.edu.