It’s been 25 years since the last research study was conducted to determine the reptile and amphibian species residing in Stanley Park. New findings show a number of species no longer exist in the park that were there a quarter century ago.

After eight months of surveying, BCIT students from the Renewable Resources (Fish, Wildlife and Recreation) program teamed up with the Stanley Park Ecology Society (SPES) for the “Herptile Blitz” in March. Alongside biologists and SPES volunteers, second year BCIT students surveyed key habitats to determine what creatures lurk beneath the park’s waters.

SPES Conservation Biologist and BCIT Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Robyn Worcester, helped oversee the “blitzing” project. Led by Claudel Dupuis-Bourret and Elissa Astorino, BCIT students waded through Beaver Lake and Lost Lagoon to survey Stanley Park’s reptile and amphibian populations.

The group made some astonishing discoveries. Robyn located a rare albino Ensatina salamander.  During the last century, only three albino amphibians have been found in North America. An exciting discovery for the Stanley Park Ecology Society!

Learn more about the Renewable Resource – Fish, Wildlife and Recreation program at BCIT.

 

Robyn Worcester, Conservation Programs Manager at the Stanley Park Ecology Society (FWR grad and BCIT Distinguished Alumnus).