I am a wildlife ecologist primarily interested in conservation biology, wildlife in agriculture, and human-wildlife conflicts. I am currently a Partner Biologist with Point Blue Conservation Science and NRCS where I focus on conserving and enhancing wildlife habitat on private ranches and farms in Northern California.
I completed my Master's degree at Humboldt State University under the supervision of Dr. Matthew Johnson where I studied barn owl nest box selection on Napa Valley vineyards. Farmers install barn owl nest boxes as a natural way to reduce rodent pests. My research focused on barn owl habitat selection at multiple spatial scales as well as examining farmers' perceptions of raptors in vineyards. This was applied research with the aim of providing farmers with information on how to increase nest box occupancy and therefore the biological benefits of attracting owls.
I have also studied birds and other wildlife in Kenya, China, Wyoming and Northern California working as a research assistant and field technician for universities as well as the National Park Service. I have a B.S. in Wildlife from Humboldt State University.
Before I started studying wild creatures, I worked for state and federal agencies as a seasonal trail worker and wild land firefighter, which allowed me to travel and work on organic farms in the off season. I enjoy all things food.