The Sterling College Biology Department was recently represented in an academic journal for their research. Alumnus Joshua “Bo” Westerfield ’16 and junior Lacey Buckwalter of Sylvia, Kansas, were both featured in Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science for their research on porcupines in Kansas.

“The research by Lacey and Bo significantly advanced our understanding of exactly where this species is located throughout the state. Their research also provides an important baseline to monitor future changes in porcupine distribution that could occur in response to climate change or shifting land-use patterns. I’m so proud that our students are not only learning science in the classroom, but are actually advancing scientific understanding through published research,” said Dr. Jonathan Conard, associate professor of biology.

Buckwalter’s piece, “Distribution of the North American porcupine in Kansas” was co-authored with Conard and features the findings of a survey sent to veterinary clinics in each county in Kansas. The research found that “porcupines are still relatively uncommon in Kansas and that encounters most commonly occurred in fall months.”

“Conducting this research over the distribution of porcupines in Kansas was a great opportunity for me to learn the scientific research process,” said Buckwalter. “I enjoyed talking to veterinarians from across the state to collect data and learning more about these unique animals. I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to work on this project and for the guidance of Dr. Conard, who led me through every step.”

Westerfield’s piece, “New observations of porcupines at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Stafford and Reno counties, Kansas,” was co-authored with Conard and Barry Jones. In it, Westerfield states the porcupines “observed on and around Quivira National Wildlife Refuge were near the edge of the geographic range for the porcupine in central North America and are the first documented sightings reported for both Stafford and Reno counties.”

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.