Richard Lehtinen

Richard Lehtinen is the Theron L. Peterson and Dorothy R. Peterson Professor of Biology at the College of Wooster, where he teaches courses like Ecology, Evolution, and Natural History. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan (2003), an M.S. from the University of Minnesota (1997), and a B.S. from Winona State University (1995). His research focuses on ecology, evolution, and conservation biology, with particular emphasis on amphibians, reptiles, and urban wildlife adaptation.

Key projects include studying phytotelm-breeding frogs in Madagascar, squirrel color polymorphism in urban environments, and reforestation efforts at Fern Valley Field Station. He has published over 60 peer-reviewed articles, collaborating extensively with undergraduate students (40+ co-authors). His work addresses biodiversity threats, climate change mitigation, and conservation strategies in tropical and temperate ecosystems.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., University of Michigan, 2003
  • M.S., University of Minnesota, 1997
  • B.S., Winona State University, 1995
• Research Highlights:
  • Long-term monitoring of Blanchard’s cricket frog and terrestrial salamanders
  • Investigations into amphibian disease dynamics (e.g., Bd infections)
  • Urban wildlife adaptation studies, including squirrel coat color evolution
• Labs/Teams: Fern Valley Field Station, Wooster Natural Areas