Catherine Whatley Email & Phone Number

Scotland, United Kingdom

Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

Looking at developing non-destructive biomarkers for chemical impacts on reproduction in Rana temporaria (Common frogs)

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

Carried out a wide range of research tasks in the Preziosi lab at Manchester Metropolitan University, primarily focused on herpetology research, writing up papers, and the supervision of students

Chester, United Kingdom

Assisted in husbandry of a wide range of herpetological species, as well as carrying out a research project on supplementation of dietary carotenoids on golden mantella frogs

London, United Kingdom

Worked in the herpetology section of ZSL London Zoo as a zookeeper whilst undertaking several research projects in UVB provision for tadpoles, calcium gutloading of feeder worms, and substrate preference in caecilians. Skills obtained include:• An understanding of the importance of public education in the conservation of animals.• Experimental design, statistical analysis, critical evaluation of data and a knowledge of scientific journals.• A recognition of the importance of animal welfare and the ethics of working with captive animals • Theory and practical applications of biosecurity and disease prevention• Design of enclosures that are not only aesthetic for the public, but are practical for keepers and appropriate for the animals in question• Assisted with training of animals to aid husbandry and veterinary procedures• Safe handling, transportation, and restraint of a wide variety of both reptiles and amphibians to ensure safety of both animals and keepers (such as monitor lizards or large bodied snakes such as Morelia boeleni)• Extensive observations of category one animal management, including transportation, veterinary procedures, bite and escape protocols, and knowledge of the various tools and equipment used to manage these animals.• Gained experience in boxing and movement of Hydrodynastes gigas of different sizes safely.• Developed an understanding of the importance of a varied and natural diet for captive animals, including methods such as supplementation (e.g. calcium to prevent NMBD or carotenoids to improve colour acquisition) to prevent malnutrition.• Knowledge of the care of a wide variety of invertebrates (both terrestrial and aquatic)• Water quality management of aquatic systems including interpretation of nitrogen cycle data, and acting accordingly to rectify issues (both chemically and manually)• Knowledge of different methods of heating and lighting provision including their limitations

My work at the vivarium involves the care of rare Costa Rican frogs such as Lemur Tree Frogs and Marsupial Frogs among many other frog species. The collection also includes salamanders, snakes, geckos, several chameleons and varieties of fish. My tasks include the cleaning of tanks, feeding using live locusts and supplement powders, providing fresh water, record keeping, aiding with the breeding work the vivarium conducts and helping with daily handling sessions with the public.

Master Of Science - Ms, Zoo Conservation Biology, Distinction

Activities and Societies: Undertook a 3 month internship in herptology at Chester Zoo where I undertook a project on dietary carotenoid.

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Zoology With Industrial/Professional Experience, 2:1