Students from Southwestern Oklahoma State University's (SWOSU) Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences recently participated in a field experience at the Ouachita Mountains Biological Station in Arkansas. The trip, held April 11-13, was part of SWOSU's Herpetology course and provided students with three days of fieldwork experience focused on the study of amphibians and reptiles. The visit also included a collaborative learning opportunity with students from Louisiana State University, who were completing a similar course under the direction of Professor Stuart Nielsen.

Led by SWOSU Professor Dr. Renan Bosque, the group conducted field surveys and observed a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. Students encountered salamanders, frogs, snakes, lizards, and other native species during both day and night sessions.

Students from SWOSU and LSU during the 2025 Herpetology course. In the center are Drs. Stuart Nielsen and Renan Bosque.

In addition to the hands-on fieldwork experience, students gained exposure to broader field research practices and techniques. The overlap with LSU's group allowed for cross-institutional learning, as students compared notes, shared techniques, and built connections with peers who share similar goals and interests. Faculty from both universities helped guide the trip, with Drs. Bosque and Nielsen facilitating discussions and group activities throughout the weekend.

For many students, the trip was a highlight of the semester, combining outdoor learning with time to connect, reflect, and build experience for the future. SWOSU students including Madilyn Crisp, Kylie Shinn, McKaegan Gregory, Christopher Martinez, Landry Freeman, Darren Powers, Quinn Do, Jonathan Almanza, and Julius Koons spent time in the field observing wildlife, recording data, and taking in the scenery of the Ouachita Mountains. After long hikes and active field sessions, the group also had time to relax and talk about what they had seen and learned.

The Herpetology field trip is one of several course-based opportunities at SWOSU that focus on practical learning and real-world application. By giving students access to regional field stations and chances to work alongside students from other universities, SWOSU helps support students interested in careers related to biology, ecology, and wildlife science.

To learn more about the SWOSU Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, visit https://www.swosu.edu/biological-sciences/index.php

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.

Julius Koons from SWOSU proudly displays the salamander he found.

Madilyn Crisp, Kylie Shinn, and McKaegan Gregory herping at night.

Madilyn Crisp displays the slimy salamander she caught.

Students herping at night at the Ouachita Mountains Biological Station, Arkansas.

Quinn Do holds a skink at the Ouachita Mountains Biological Station, Arkansas.

A ring-necked snake was found by students during the trip.

A prairie lizard photographed during the trip to the Ouachita Mountains.

Dr. Renan Bosque shows a salamander to the students.

After a long hike, taking a break to enjoy the scenery. From right to left: Christopher Martinez, Landry Freeman, Darren Powers, Dr. Renan Bosque, Quinn Do, and Julius Koons.
A green anole basking in the sun in the Ouachita Mountains.

Darren Powers enjoying his trip to the Ouachita Mountains.

Kylie Shinn enjoying her trip to the Ouachita Mountains.