COLI’s 3D printers, Rigby and Mordecai, were hard at work 3D printing realistic turtle shells based on a local species for Dr. Foster’s Herpetology Lab. These shells allowed students to learn all about the ways that wild turtles are measured in conservation studies. Students took measurements of the turtle shells using methods typically employed in field studies and learned how turtle shells can be marked for identification in the wild. Using 3D printed models gives students an opportunity to practice animal handling techniques in the classroom before going out to try it on the real thing – which is great for both the students and the animals!
We can’t wait to see how else these turtle shells will be used! Thank you Dr. Foster for providing COLI an opportunity to print for your students!