The DeGregorio Lab studies wildlife behavior, inter-species interactions and wildlife community responses to human impacts and activity. We collectively study a diversity of wildlife including turtles, snakes, songbirds and game birds, and mammalian mesopredators. I am particularly drawn to studying the underappreciated species such as armadillos, skunks, snakes, and opossum. As a group, we are driven more by the research question and opportunity than the taxa. Because of this we work in wetlands, forests, prairies and urban areas and use diverse research tools such as game cameras, radio-telemetry, and automated acoustic loggers. In June 2023, I became the Unit Leader for the newly established U.S. Geological Survey's Fish and Wildlife Cooperative Research Unit at Michigan State University. The goal of the cooperative research unit is to work collaboratively with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Fish and Wildlife Service to solve the natural resource challenges in the state, to mentor graduate students to become the next generation of fish and wildlife professionals, and to contribute to the excellence of the Michigan State University Fisheries and Wildlife Department by mentoring students and teaching graduate level courses. I look forward to working with enthusiastic and passionate students to continue the study and conservation of the amazing and diverse wildlife of Michigan.
Before joining the Michigan Unit, I was fortunate enough to serve as the Unit Leader of the Arkansas Unit for over 4 years.