West Liberty University Zoo Science & Applied Conservation

05/23/2026

Happy World Turtle Day from the West Liberty University 🐢🌎

Today, we celebrate some of the planet’s oldest and most resilient reptiles while raising awareness for turtle and tortoise conservation around the world. From aquatic species to terrestrial box turtles, these incredible animals play an important role in healthy ecosystems — and they need our help now more than ever.

At West Liberty, we are proud to support conservation, education, research, and outreach that inspire the next generation of wildlife professionals and advocates.

💚 How you can help turtles:
• Never remove wild turtles from the wild
• Watch for turtles crossing roads
• Protect wetlands and natural habitats
• Reduce plastic pollution
• Support conservation and education programs
Every turtle matters. Every action counts.

05/21/2026

Where are they now?
Zoo Science Alumni - Haley Wetzel Mozelewski

I came to West Lib in 2018, after earning a BS in Biology from Duquesne University, to be among the first graduate students in the Master's in Biology/Zoo Science program. During my time in the program, I participated in a 6-month marine mammal internship at Shedd Aquarium focused on operant conditioning training and the care of marine mammals. Then I moved to Albuquerque to work with fish and otters at the Albuquerque BioPark while still in the Master's program. I earned my Master's, over Zoom, in April 2020, prime COVID time.

Now, I am the Senior Sea Lion Trainer at Audubon Zoo. I use my operant conditioning, animal husbandry, and various carpentry/plumbing skills that I learned in the program daily. I’ve trained over 50 different behaviors, ranging from basics to husbandry to cognitive. In the near future, I will be working on behaviorally controlled introductions of sea lions.

05/09/2026

04/23/2026

Peace out ✌🏻 with Bella, the Tegu!

Did you know Tegus stick out their forked tongues to "smell" or taste the air, acting as a sensory tool to analyze their surroundings?

The tongue collects chemical scent particles, which are then transferred to the Jacobson's organ (vomeronasal organ) in the roof of the mouth to identify food, mates, and potential dangers.

04/09/2026

Where are they now?
Zoo Science Alumni - Madison Story

I am a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and licensed falconer, and the Assistant Clinic Manager at Tamarack Wildlife Center. I graduated from WLU in spring of 2023, with a degree in ZooScience & Applied Conservation.

04/03/2026

Last week Zoo Science participated in Spirit Week, which brought a lot of joy to Arnett Hall!

Mammal Charades Monday
Teacher Tuesday
Weird Science Facts Kahoot Wednesday
Thoughtful Thursday
Feathered Friday - paper airplane race

04/01/2026

Introducing Zoo Science's newest resident: Oakley, the Virginia Opossum!

Virginia Opossums are the only marsupial native to North America.

We are so excited for our students and guests to learn more about Virginia Opossums through Oakley's presence here! Stay tuned to learn more.

03/20/2026

We’re feeling froggy 🐸 here on the Hilltop!

03/05/2026

Last week students from Wheeling Country Day School visited West Liberty University as part of a deep dive learning experience on habitats. Mrs. Mead's 1st grade class met animals in Zoo Science and learned about the environments in which they live. The class then went to the Center for Arts and Education to create 3D art inspired by the habitat they chose to study.

If your school or group are interested in coming on campus to learn from our animal collection, please visit westliberty.edu/zoosci to schedule your event.

wheelingcountrydayschool

03/03/2026

On Tuesdays, we let our tongues hang out! 👅

03/02/2026

This is Sparkle. 🐢 Sparkle needs a caption.
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