Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2025-1010

Advisor

Welch, Mark

Committee Member

Gerber, Glenn

Committee Member

Ervin, Gary

Date of Degree

8-13-2024

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Biological Sciences

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Biological Sciences

Abstract

Analysis of animal movement has been integrated into a framework of four components: internal state, motion capacity, navigation capacity, and external factors (Nathan et al., 2008). We used this framework to enhance understanding of movement behavior in the 15 West Indian rock iguana (Cyclura) taxa and to inform conservation management. Our review found that adult female Cyclura large-scale movement is primarily driven by nesting and migrations. Nest site selection also influences hatchling dispersal, but few studies identify preferred habitats for nesting females. Anthropogenic impacts on nesting ecology are largely unexplored, especially in Cyclura carinata. We studied C. carinata nesting ecology in a threatened population, aiming to identify habitat preferences and assess human impact on nesting success. This research fills gaps by addressing both proximate causes of movement and ultimate outcomes of movement decisions, essential for developing effective conservation strategies. Understanding both aspects is crucial for mitigating threats to Cyclura populations.

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