Aquatic Turtle Research in Platte Landing Park Wetlands

This summer, Dr. Jeff Kimmons, a professor at Park University, is conducting aquatic turtle research in the Platte Landing Park Wetlands with his students. Their work will hlep identify which aquatic turtle species are present, how abundant they are, and what they are eating. The information gathered will provide a clearer picture of the wetland's wildlife community and contribute to our understanding of the ecological health and biodiversity of this important natural area. 

This project builds on Dr. Kimmons' ongoing research in Parkville's natural areas, including his study of the aquatic turtle community in Rush Creek within Sullivan Nature Sanctuary, which began in 2021. That reserach found strong populations of red-eared sliders and western painted turtles, along with smaller numbers of eastern spiny softshells and eastern snapping turtles. 

Dr. Kimmons, serves as an Associate Professor of Biology at Park University. He earned his BA from Drury University, MS from Missouri Sate University, and PhD from University of Arkansas. His areas of expertise and research interests include anatomy and physiology, ecology, ornithology, and herpetology. Dr. Kimmons is involved with the Waterbird Society and the American Ornithology Society. 

Joining Dr. Kimmons is his current research assistant, Hunter Springer. Hunter is a Park University Alumna that recently graduated with a Masters degree from Emporia State University.