We conduct applied ecological research
to better understand, manage, and conserve animal populations in natural and urban landscapes. Our research program builds knowledge about wildlife populations and communities by seeking solutions to specific management and conservation challenges. Generally, our lab is interested in large mammals and their population dynamics, disease transmission, community-level interactions, human-wildlife interaction, and wildlife damage.
Dr. Van Deelen specializes in conservation and management of large mammals and mammal communities in the Great Lakes region. Specifically, population dynamics, species movement, predator-prey interactions, and chronic wasting disease.
Dr. Drake specializes in urban wildlife management, wildlife damage management in human-dominated landscapes, and general wildlife. Specifically, urban coyote and red fox management and ecology.