March 19, 2026 – Six Hendrix College students
recently shared original wildlife research at the Arkansas Chapter of The
Wildlife Society (AR-TWS) annual meeting in Fort Smith, gaining valuable
professional experience and recognition for their work. The students were accompanied
by Judy and Randy Wilbourn Odyssey Professor of Biology and Environmental
Studies Dr. Maureen McClung ’01.
During the March 11–12
conference, each student presented research conducted over the past year in Dr.
McClung’s lab, highlighting Hendrix’s commitment to hands-on undergraduate
research and environmental stewardship.
Two students, Ella
Hyte ’27 and Zulkifl Qazi ’28, presented findings from the Central
Arkansas Urban Wildlife Project, a game camera research initiative
conducted in collaboration with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).
Their work explores how urbanization is shaping wildlife behavior and
biodiversity in the Little Rock area.
Four additional
students—Kacey Davis ’28, Emily Jones ’28, Max Hooten ’27, and Belle Rose
’27—presented research from bird banding projects conducted at Stone Prairie
Wildlife Management Area in partnership with AGFC and at the Hendrix Creek
Preserve. Located adjacent to campus, the preserve serves as a valuable outdoor
classroom and research site as well as a natural space for the Hendrix
community.
Hooten received first
place in the conference’s poster presentation competition, an honor recognizing
both the quality of his research and his presentation skills.
In addition to
presenting, students attended scientific sessions featuring research from
universities and state agencies across Arkansas. Topics ranged from the use of
environmental DNA (eDNA) in wildlife conservation to the role of prescribed
fire in managing habitat for species of greatest conservation need. Students
also participated in the conference’s student quiz bowl competition and silent
auction, which raises funds to support student research and professional
development opportunities.
The following student
presentations were featured at the conference:
- Effects of Rising Temperature and Decreasing Canopy Cover
on Time of Activity of Birds at Stone Prairie WMA by Kacey Davis
- Impacts of Woodland Restoration on the Breeding Bird
Community at Stone Prairie WMA by Max Hooten
- Urban Development after Dark: Increased Nocturnal Activity
of Coyotes around Little Rock, Arkansas by Ella Hyte
- The Effects of Habitat Guild and Age on Songbird Recapture
at Stone Prairie WMA by Emily Jones
- Effects of Urbanization on the Richness and Detections of
Mammals in Central Arkansas with a Focus on Virginia Opossums and Tree
Squirrels by Zulkifl Qazi
- Migratory Strategy Predicts Bird Body Condition at a
Suburban Preserve in Central Arkansas by Belle Rose
This experiential
learning opportunity was made possible through support from the Judy and Randy
Wilbourn Odyssey Professorship, which helps expand student access to
high-impact academic experiences such as research, travel, and professional
development.
At Hendrix,
undergraduate research opportunities like these are a cornerstone of the
College’s engaged learning approach, empowering students to contribute
meaningful scholarship while preparing for careers in science, conservation,
and beyond.
About
Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is
featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 45 Schools That Will Change the Way You
Think About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts
colleges for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities and career
preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors
compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the
United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement that links the
classroom with the world, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice,
and sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives
of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” –Hendrix College Statement of
Purpose