Investigators, Collaborators, and Colleagues
Ozark Hellbender Working Group
The Hellbender Symposium Series
An important aspect of developing a Conservation Plan for hellbender is to determine an accurate estimate of the historic as well as the current distribution. While conducting numerous surveys since 1991, we have had many insightful riverbank conversations that have enlightened us to both new and historic localities. We have also received many sighting reports as a result of outreach programs, designed to teach citizens about hellbenders and river ecosystems. Reports have also been received in the form of newspaper articles, phone calls, emails, and voucher specimens (latter NOT encouraged).
We investigate every reliable hellbender sighting. If you would like to help us and report a hellbender sighting, please contact any of the investigators listed within this website. This aspect of hellbender research will continue as long as we keep receiving this valuable information.
White River Site
 |
 |
|
This location was received in the form of a phone call which resulted in a newspaper article showing a picture of the hellbender that was caught on hook and line by a local fisherman. (Photo by Waylon Hiler) |
Phillip and Waylon prepare to descend into the deep. (Photo by Stan Trauth) |
 |
 |
| Phillip tending the line for Kelly. (Photo by Stan Trauth) | Phillip Stewart, Ben Wheeler, Kelly Irwin, and Waylon Hiler dive for hellbenders at this deep and very swift site. (Photo by Stan Trauth) |