Patricia D. Cole, Ph.D.

Office: Prospect Park Zoo - Wildlife Conservation Society
Phone: 718-399-7312
E-mail: pcole@wcs.org

General Area of Research
     Animal Learning, Cognition & Behavior
Description of Current Research

Prospect Park Zoo has approximately 125 animal species on and off exhibit. Part of our mission is to improve the welfare of the animals in our care and increase our understanding of their behavior. Of particular interest is the efficacy of current and novel enrichment strategies.

The behavior of our Hamadryas Baboon group is currently of specific interest to me and has been the topic of several small projects, with many more possible.

Student Opportunities
Essential and Desirable Background Knowledge and Skills

Essential:
A keen interest in animal behavior, knowledge of observational techniques and research design, commitment, reliability, and flexibility.

Desirable:
Some knowledge of statistical procedures.

Expected Responsibilities
Regular attendance and self-motivation are essential. Full projects require a commitment of at least one full day per week. However, observations may be made over shorter periods if not part of a research project.
Expected Benefits
For the student a unique research experience in a unique setting that will provide an excellent basis for further research endeavors.

Hunter College of the City University of New York
695 Park Avenue • New York, NY  10021
Psychology Department
Last revised: 01.10.2007