Sensitive Species Research

BSAP scientists conduct applied research on state- and federally listed species to improve understanding of their ecology and support conservation, recovery, and compliance. Our work spans aquatic and terrestrial systems, focusing on population dynamics, habitat use, and species response to management and environmental change.

BSAP biologists hold permits for listed species work and have decades of experience conducting targeted studies that connect field observation, data analysis, and conservation application.

Areas of Focus

• Aquatic Ecology — Community and population assessments, relocation and post-construction monitoring, habitat modeling, and recovery studies for endangered and threatened aquatic species.
• Botany and Plant Ecology — Surveys and mapping of threatened and endangered plants, vegetation assessments in restored and remnant habitats, demographic analysis (e.g., PVA), population genetics, and long-term monitoring of management responses and population stability.
• Herpetology — Breeding-site monitoring, movement and habitat-use studies, and population tracking to evaluate conservation outcomes and inform recovery planning.
• Mammalogy — Acoustic and mist-net surveys, roost and habitat characterization, and connectivity studies supporting conservation and population management.
• Ornithology — Surveys of rare and declining bird species, nest ecology, habitat association analyses, and monitoring of restoration sites.
• Invertebrate Biology — Research on rare and indicator invertebrates, including pollinators, crayfish, and other taxa, to assess biodiversity, habitat condition, and ecosystem function.

By combining field research, long-term monitoring, habitat modeling, and curated INHS collections data, our scientists provide the ecological insight needed to protect and recover rare and declining species. Our work advances both scientific understanding and the practical application of conservation.