Carly Folsom

Conducted a mesocarnivore population comparison project versus prior decade baselines by setting up and maintaining camera traps across remote sites. Managed field scheduling, landowner coordination, and classified images for downstream analysis using photo workflows.

Supported research on how different bobwhite feeding protocols affect populations by running day-to-day field operations. Trapped bobwhite quail, attached VHF/GPS transmitters, collected telemetry location data, and shared observations with the PI.

Independently led daily field trips on the Michigan–Wisconsin border and supported undergraduate research training. Developed and delivered field discussions and instruction, graded field quizzes, and taught lab/field skills including compass use and research project development.

Collected camera-trap and habitat survey data to assess population and habitat selection changes over the 21st century. Managed GPS/OnX navigation, camera setup and baiting, SD card swaps, and vegetation/habitat surveys while maintaining scheduled sampling intervals.

Conducted an independent nilgai antelope research project and led technicians through capture and handling while measuring morphological and physiological characteristics. Presented findings at two conferences and supported camera-trap, telemetry/collaring, and nematode-sprayer work, including sensor troubleshooting and sensor updates.

Conducted mist-net surveys for endangered Indiana bats to evaluate how habitat management changes affect abundance and colony use. Performed capture handling and tagging, collected blood/hair samples, deployed acoustic devices, and supported telemetry tracking across study areas.

Investigated how habitat management practices affect duck nest success and nest site abundance through standardized nest and vegetation monitoring. Conducted nest drag assessments, egg candling, nest fate checks, and vegetation surveys to support abundance estimates.

Supported research on how bison grazing influences sagebrush-obligate songbirds in Yellowstone National Park by collecting abundance and habitat-related field data. Conducted abundance surveys, plant and grazer scat surveys, and entered observations into the Access database while using GPS/GIS tools for route monitoring.

Provided undergraduate lab support by assembling lab instruments and preparing supplies for classes. Helped with glassware questions and distributed chemicals for experiments under course procedures.

Grade: GPA 3.13

Activities and societies: Undergraduate thesis: "Effects of Image Quality on Identification and Count of Animals in Classifying Camera Trap Photos."

Completed a B.S. in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana (2013–2016). Undergraduate thesis examined how image quality and rater experience affect animal identification and count error rates from camera-trap photos.