Lee is a master’s student at Stephen F. Austin State University. He is advised by Dr. Cord
Eversole. Lee’s master’s research focuses on evaluating the population status, habitat
requirements, and habitat use of the plains spotted skunk in south Texas. Lee is originally from
San Antonio, Texas and grew up in the countryside. He graduated magna cum laude with a
Bachelor of Science in Forestry with a concentration in Forest Wildlife Management at Stephen
F. Austin State University in 2025. Lee is enthusiastic about conservation and ecology, and is
dedicated to furthering scientific knowledge for use in the development of management plans. In
his free time, Lee enjoys reading and the outdoors (fishing, hunting, scuba diving, and hiking).
Stephen F. Austin State University
Major Advisor, Cord Eversole, Ph.D.
Spotted Skunk (Spilogale interrupta) Reseach in South Texas
Historically, the plains spotted skunk (Spilogale interrupta) was commonly found
throughout its range in the Midwestern and southeastern United States. However, the species
experienced a substantial decline between the 1940’s and 50’s, and as a result, is now considered
a species of conservation concern. Due to this, a dearth of information exists on the natural
history and ecology of this species. After 1961, the presence of the plains spotted skunk has only
been recorded twice in south Texas. Landscape characterized by closed mesquite and mixed
brush canopy that is maintained for large-scale cattle ranching may be contributing to favorable
habitat conditions for the plains spotted skunk; however, this remains poorly studied and largely
unknown. Therefore, our study on this species is necessary to fully understand the population
status, habitat requirements, and habitat use of this species in south Texas. We will establish
study plots on the Welder Wildlife Refuge, the Fennessey Ranch, and the Aransas National
Wildlife Refuge. We will monitor plains spotted skunks via camera trapping to estimate
occupancy on the landscape. At each camera site, we will sample habitat to assess and compare
habitat composition at local and landscape scales. Our findings will enhance our understanding
of plains spotted skunk activity patterns, habitat use, and general ecology, and will inform future
management and conservation efforts of the species.
welderwildlife.org 