Honors Projects

Abstract

This project investigates the primary anthropogenic drivers of wildlife admissions at Lake Erie Nature and Science Center using a quantitative analysis of 10,172 intake records from the WILD-ONe database. Window collisions were by far the leading cause of admission, accounting for 54% of all intakes. Orphaning represented 12%, followed by vehicle collisions (5%) and domestic cat attacks (4%). By integrating findings from current wildlife rehabilitation research, this study identifies evidence-based strategies, such as bird-safe window treatments, public education on natural animal behavior, and targeted urban planning, that can substantially reduce preventable injuries. These results underscore the need for context-specific outreach and policy interventions to support human-wildlife existence.

Department

Biological Sciences

Major

Biology

First Advisor

Karen Root

First Advisor Department

Biological Sciences

Second Advisor

Nathan Hensley

Second Advisor Department

Environment and Sustainability

Publication Date

Fall 12-5-2025

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