Outstanding M.Sc. Student Award
The Outstanding Master of Science Award honors an M.S. graduate student whose research exemplifies rigorous science, strong collaboration with cooperators, and meaningful contributions to fish and wildlife management.
Haley Turner
Haley Turner is a master’s student working with Dr. Angela Fuller at the New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Funded by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Haley works closely with agency biologists and managers to coordinate statewide data collection efforts. Haley has distinguished herself as an exceptional applied researcher, a valued technical partner to agency collaborators, and a highly effective communicator and mentor.
Haley’s M.S. research primarily evaluates the abundance of bobcats (Lynx rufus) across New York State. Bobcats in New York have low occurrence and a lack of strong natural markings, which create challenges when estimating their abundance. To confront these challenges, Haley is utilizing partial identity spatial capture-recapture models integrated with movement data from GPS collared bobcats. The results of the study will provide a platform for evidence-based management of bobcats in New York and has already had direct influence on statewide wildlife monitoring and management in New York.
Associated Publication
Turner, H.M., A.K. Fuller, J.P. Twining, G.R. Hitchener, M.A. Fadden, D.E. Stallknecht, R.L. Poulson, D.L. Carter, M.B. Watson, K.L. Schuler, and J.C. Bloodgood. 2025. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus Exposure and Infection in Free-Ranging Bobcats (Lynx rufus) in New York, USA. Journal of Wildlife Diseases. https://doi.org/10.7589/JWD-D-24-00137
Awards Committee Comment:
The Awards Committee was impressed with Haley’s ability to develop new statistical models for integrating camera trap with imperfect individual ID’s, her close collaboration and technical assistance with New York’s DEC, and mentorship of a high school student.