Grace McKinney

In Ontario there are eight native species of turtle, all of which are considered endangered or at risk. Based out of Kanata, Ontario, my master's research involves the study of two of these species; the Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), and the painted turtle (Chrysemys picta). Through the use and calibration of accelerometers on both wild and captive turtles, we hope to determine the activity patterns of the two species when they roam freely.  With this knowledge, not only will we be better able to understand the behaviour of these species, but we will be better equipped when making decisions regarding conservation and land use. This is particularly relevant as human disturbance and land development are steadily increasing. 

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Education

• 2018- present MSc Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Trent University, Peterborough, ON
  
• 2014-2018 BSc Biology and Anthropology, specialization in Conservation Biology, Trent University, Peterborough, ON 
  

Contact:
email: gracemckinney@trentu.ca