Behavioral and physiological responses of a freshwater turtle to anthropogenic activity

Abstract

First, I would like to thank my family, whose immense support throughout my early years and college endeavors made this adventure possible. For my mom and dad, who supported my pursuits even when they involved bringing home wild animals that may have escaped into the house once or twice (we may never know). I would like to thank my father, whose love of the outdoors, hiking, and chasing lizards was apparently infectious. I would additionally like to thank my mother, who told me the story of Jane Goodall and made me feel that it was possible for women to become scientists. I would like to thank my sisters Kathy and Dasha Polich, who are a constant source of joy when I make it home. I would also like to thank my grandma, Charlotte Polich, who always told me how proud she was of my academic pursuits. I would like to thank my grandpa Bill Polich, the first Polich scientist, who I think would have been proud of me. I am also grateful to my Aunt Susan, who knit me at least 10 scarves because she was worried I'd freeze in the Iowa cold. Finally, I would like to thank Grandma Franklin, Aunt Alice, Uncle Tom, Uncle Paul, Grandma Carol, Grandpa Franklin, and my cousins Rachel, Sean, and James. I would not be the person who I am today without you. Thank you to Fred Janzen, an excellent scientist and wonderful adviser. I am especially grateful for your patience and trusting support throughout this process. I have tremendous respect for you as both a scientist and a mentor, and I hope to be able to emulate you as a professional in this field. I would like to thank my committee members who have provided invaluable guidance, enthusiasm, and support: Anne Bronikowski, Amy Toth, Diane Debinski, and Lance Baumgard. I am grateful for everything that you've done for me and all that I've learned from you. vi I would like to thank my lab mates who have encouraged me, served as mentors, and given me friendship: