Morgan Breen ’24 is a zoology major from Easton MA. Morgan is a recipient of the international Research Opportunities Program (IROP) grant and this summer she is doing research at Bambelela Wildlife Rehabilitation in South Africa.
She is analyzing the behaviors of orphaned Vervet monkeys raised by surrogate and biological mothers. This study aims to assess the rehabilitation success of these monkeys once they are released into the wild.
Morgan Breen: I am at Bambelela Wildlife Rehabilitation in South Africa comparing the behaviors of orphaned Vervet monkeys raised by surrogate mothers and those raised by their biological mothers to determine rehabilitation success once released.
Morgan: I am exploring whether rehabilitating orphaned Vervet monkeys with surrogate mothers, who teach them essential survival skills, is as effective as being raised by their biological mothers. This research will provide valuable insights into the success of the rehabilitation process, judging by the behaviors the monkeys exhibit, which are crucial as they mature.
Morgan: I have been working at the rehabilitation as well as doing my research here and have learned so much about wildlife care and the steps of rehabilitation. Studying the behaviors of all the different troops has been fascinating, and I am learning a lot about how they form their ranks and the dynamics within the troop.
Morgan: Prospective students should know about the diverse opportunities available, even in very niche areas of interest. Additionally, we have many amazing faculty members who are willing to support and facilitate access to these opportunities whenever possible.
Morgan: What I love most about UNH is the sense of community that exists here. The faculty care so much about the students, there are so many clubs and groups on campus that are open to everyone, and it is incredibly easy to make friends and find people with similar interests!
