Weatherford, OK – Over Spring Break, students from Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) traveled to Yellowstone National Park’s northern range to take part in an immersive field experience during the Yellowstone Ecology course. Led by Dr. Renan Bosque and Dr. Daniel Rocha, the group explored one of North America’s most ecologically significant regions.

The course provided students with a unique opportunity to study various ecological topics, including conservation challenges and the delicate balance of wildlife and their environments. Through hands-on fieldwork and guided discussions, students gained a deeper understanding of the region’s complex ecosystem, from the role of apex predators to the dynamics of plant and animal interactions.

One of the highlights of the trip was the chance to observe Yellowstone’s diverse wildlife, with students spotting coyotes, bison, wolves, pronghorn, black bears, red foxes, bald eagles, and moose. The students also participated in activities to study and track wildlife, including lessons on wolf ecology from local specialist Brad Bulin.

In addition to wildlife tracking, students took part in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing activities to explore the winter habitats of Yellowstone. These activities gave students hands-on experience in navigating the snow-covered landscape and understanding the challenges wildlife face in extreme weather conditions. During one snowstorm, the group concluded an activity to observe how small animals use snow layers for shelter and survival in winter ecosystems.

The trip also emphasized SWOSU’s commitment to field-based education and environmental awareness. Students not only explored the natural beauty of Yellowstone but also gained an appreciation for the conservation efforts needed to protect such vital ecosystems.

For more information about SWOSU’s Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, visit https://www.swosu.edu/biological-sciences/.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves over 5,000 scholars and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.