I study bird behavior—especially how social dynamics and group living influence reproduction and survival. My research focuses on cooperatively breeding species like the red-cockaded woodpecker, connecting behavioral ecology to conservation management.
I became specifically interested in cooperative breeding birds through my dissertation work. Cooperative breeders are fascinating because they challenge traditional ideas of competition and family life in nature. Understanding how individuals work together to raise young helps us learn more about adaptation, resilience, and conservation across species.
Inclusive Nature is my upcoming book project exploring equity, access, and belonging in the natural sciences and outdoor spaces. It brings together stories, research, and lived experiences to imagine a more inclusive and accessible future for fieldwork and nature engagement. The book will share experiences and knowledge from 40+ co-authors.
I co-founded Field Inclusive as both a reflection of my experience as a Black woman in the wildlife sciences and a commitment to amplifying and supporting marginalized and historically excluded individuals in outdoor and field-based sciences. Our mission is to create safer, more equitable spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to participate in research and conservation.
Yes! I regularly give invited talks, keynote lectures, and workshops on bird conservation, inclusive fieldwork, and science communication. If you’re interested in inviting me to speak at your event, please reach out to my speaking agent through the Contact page.
It started as a way to make my research more relatable. I quickly realized that sharing science through storytelling could inspire others and make conservation more inclusive. My goal is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and human connection.
You can find my writing and other media appearances in National Geographic, WIRED, PBS SciNC, and The Nature Conservancy’s Cool Green Science blog. I also contribute to outlets highlighting inclusion and environmental storytelling. View a select list of my SciCom here.
I’m honored when students reach out! Unfortunately, I can’t always accommodate individual interview or questionnaire requests due to time constraints. However, you’re welcome to use the information on this website, and many of my interviews and articles are publicly available online. Here is great one.
Possibly! I love engaging with diverse audiences—especially students, educators, and conservation professionals. please reach out to my speaking agent through the Contact page to see if it’s a good fit.
I keep my personal accounts private, but you can absolutely follow my professional updates on LinkedIn and Instagram! Links are available in the site footer.
You can share my writing, follow Field Inclusive, or invite me to collaborate on inclusive conservation and outreach projects. Your support helps amplify diverse voices in science and the outdoors.