Leadership Team
Patrick Nadeau
President & Chief Executive Officer
@Pat_Nad
Protecting the beauty and diversity of life on Earth – that’s the mission that has underpinned my entire adult life thus far, and it’s what fuels my enthusiasm for the role of President at Birds Canada. A biologist by training, I have a boundless fascination with animal behaviour (including migrations of course), and have had the great privilege of leading environmental non-profits for over a decade. Not a day goes by where I’m not reminded that North America has lost one in four birds since 1970 – three billion birds. My pledge to you is to work tirelessly to stop that catastrophe in its tracks.
David Browne, Ph.D.
Senior Vice-President, Conservation & Policy
I am a conservation professional with over 20 years of experience in translating science and knowledge into action for species and habitats. I have worked on biodiversity conservation at the local, national, and international level. Prior to joining Birds Canada I led the conservation program of the Canadian Wildlife Federation and worked as a federal policy analyst for Species at Risk and migratory birds at the Canadian Wildlife Service. I hold master’s degrees in environmental policy, earth sciences, and biology. I take my inspiration from noticing the beauty in the small details of nature whether it be in the green spaces of the city or the vast wilderness areas we are lucky to have in Canada. E-mail: dbrowne @ birdscanada.org
Pete Davidson
Interim Vice-President, Science and Monitoring
Kyla Makela
Vice-President, Partnerships and Development
519-586-3531 ext. 113
LeaAnne Ross
Vice-President, Communications and Engagement
Katie Ardeline
Director of Human Resources
519-586-3531
Mohib Habib
Senior Director of Finance
mhabib @ birdscanada.org
MANAGEMENT TEAM
Jody Allair
Director of Communications
519-586-3531 ext. 197
Gregor Beck
Senior Director, Northern Canada
519-586-3531 ext. 152
I am a wildlife biologist and conservation professional with over 25 years of experience in the environmental field.I’ve worked on conservation, wildlife research, and educational programs throughout my career, and written publications on a diversity of topics – from birds and reptiles to native plants and watershed ecology. I have directed projects for Ontario Nature, Long Point Basin Land Trust, and the Québec-Labrador Foundation, and have served in a number of senior roles at Birds Canada.
David Bradley, PH.D.
Conservation Scientist & Director, British Columbia
604-401-6850
Kelsey Butler
Director, Atlantic and Québec
519-586-3531 Ext. 196
Andrew Coughlan
Associate Director, Québec and Atlantic
418-649-6062
Andrew Couturier, FRCGS
Senior Director, Landscape Science and Conservation (Currently on Secondment)
519-586-3531 ext. 131
Kate Dalgleish
Director of Annual Giving
519-586-3531 ext. 174
Kiel Drake, PH.D.
Director, Prairie Region
306-249-2894
I draw inspiration and rejuvenation from interacting with the natural world – the wilder and more remote, the stronger the inspiration. I have broad interests in avian monitoring and conservation, which includes experience with estimation of demographic parameters, conservation planning, species-habitat modeling, and bioacoustics monitoring. I was awarded a Ph.D. from the University of Saskatchewan where my studies examined the role of dispersal in population dynamics of breeding Ross’s Geese. For over 20 years, my professional experience has lain primarily in the realm of water-loving birds. I was drawn to the conservation profession seeing a need to protect wildlife and the places where wild critters live.
Laura Irvine
Director, Ontario Programs
I have always been passionate about the environment and feel like my true self when immersed in nature – whether it be hiking, canoeing, scuba diving, or birding. After an early career switch from the humanitarian research sector, I spent several years coordinating biological monitoring projects focused on endangered species in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and back home in Ontario. In addition to hands-on work with birds, turtles, snakes, manatees, and benthic invertebrates, I have also been active in local communities to study the many complex human-environment relationships that promote or deter positive conservation action. I absolutely love birding and continue to learn more about local and migratory species as a volunteer at a local bird banding project.
Denis Lepage, PH.D.
Senior Director, Data Science and Technology
519-586-3531 ext. 155
Stu Mackenzie
Director of Strategic Assets
519-586-3531 ext. 162
I began exploring the natural world while in the womb, and have been birding since the age of two. In my current role, I’m responsible for the Motus Wildlife Tracking System, Long Point Bird Observatory, Thunder Cape Bird Observatory, and aspects of the Canadian Migration Monitoring Network. I hold degrees from the University of Guelph and Western University. Formerly, I served as President of the Ontario Bird Banding Association and Chair of the North American Banding Council. I live in Port Rowan with my wife and two children.
Silke Nebel, PH.D.
Vice-President, Key Conservation Initiatives
519-586-3531 ext.163
Evelyne Morin
Acting Senior Director, International Cooperation and Conservation
With a decade of experience in the international cooperation sector, I have managed diverse projects across all continents, focusing on community-based approaches at the intersection of gender, social, and climate justice to enhance food security and empower women economically. My journey led me to deepen my expertise in biodiversity conservation by developing climate adaptation projects that prioritize nature-positive outcomes. I am particularly intrigued by migratory species that travel vast distances, adapting their routes in response to human activities and the shifting climate to survive. In my current role at Birds Canada, I oversee and develop conservation projects for migratory bird habitats along their flyways, integrating social justice into our efforts. This involves actively advocating for the recognition of the rights and contributions of all conservation actors, especially marginalized communities, women, and Indigenous Peoples. In my free time, I seek solace in nature through activities like hiking, camping, and paddling, which offer a refreshing escape from the busyness of everyday life.e-mail: emorin @ birdscanada.org
Greg Spira
Senior Program Director – International Cooperation & Conservation
Doug Tozer, PH.D.
Director, Waterbirds and Wetlands
519-586-3531 ext. 168
SPECIES OF HIGHEST CONCERN
REVERSING THE PRECIPITOUS DECLINES OF IMPERILLED SPECIES AND BIRD GROUPS MOST AT RISK
Sue Abbott
Associate Director – Atlantic Programs
Natasha Barlow
Ontario Projects Biologist
519-586-3531 ext. 165
The nature of my discipline has made me very aware of the interesting challenges that come with balancing human needs with natural resource protection. By studying birds, and protecting them now and for the future, we have a great way to ensure the protection of other species, including ourselves. Birds can allow us to rectify the disconnect between scientists and the general public. As people from all walks of life can connect over bird watching, birds can provide an avenue where we can have those difficult conversations about conservation that need to be had. This is particularly true in my work in Ontario with aerial insectivores, the Breeding Bird Survey, and the Breeding Bird Atlas.
Brendan Boyd, Ph.D.
Ontario Forest Birds Program Coordinator
Gwendolyn Clark
Coordinator, Chimney Swift Chimney Restoration Fund
While I have always had a fascination and love for birds, I did not start out envisioning a career in ornithology. I studied ecology and evolutionary biology in university, writing my master’s thesis on the evolution of female mate choice in tropical fish. However, during this time, I began volunteering as a nest searcher at Tommy Thompson Park in Toronto and rediscovered my love of birds. After that, I decided to focus on bird research and conservation once I graduated. In my role at Birds Canada, I manage the Chimney Swift Chimney Restoration Fund. This initiative supports habitat restoration projects for this unique species across the country. I love being part of a program that directly helps the recovery of a species at risk and increases the public’s understanding and appreciation for these birds.e-mail: gclark @ birdscanada.org
Ian Cook
Grassland Conservation Manager
204-720-9161
Scott Da Rocha
Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas Field Biologist
As a kid growing up in Toronto, I was rarely exposed to the outdoors and knew little about the natural world. It wasn’t until I went camping for the first time at 19 that I discovered my passion for nature. I became fascinated by the rocks, plants, and small creatures that make up the environment around me. This newfound love for nature led me back to school, where I developed a deep interest in wildlife, especially birds. Since 2016, I’ve held various roles in the environmental sector, from erosion monitoring to working with frogs and bats, and now birds. I'm proud to work for an organization dedicated to protecting the organisms I admire so much! e-mail: sdarocha @ birdscanada.org
Rielle Hoeg
Atlantic Outreach Biologist
Sean Jenniskens
Grassland Program Biologist
I have had an interest in the natural world for longer than I can remember, and I was still quite young when this interest rather abruptly transformed into a focus, and passion for birds. As a teen, I gained the opportunity to be a part of the Young Ornithologist Workshop led by Long Point Bird Observatory, and subsequently spent a season volunteering at the observatory. In 2015, I was granted my first official position with Birds Canada as a field technician conducting field work targeting forest birds at risk in Southern Ontario. I loved the work, and the birds I was working with, and continued working with those wonderful forest birds almost annually until 2022, when I accepted a new position for Birds Canada in Saskatchewan. Now working as the Grassland Program Biologist, I have the opportunity to work with some of Canada’s most vulnerable, and charismatic bird species. I am eager to do my part in assisting protect Canada’s birds, habitats, and its biodiversity.
Allison MacKay, PHD
Conservation Planner
I believe that true change starts with the community, and that given the information and resources, small communities can achieve big conservation outcomes. I studied effects of intensive forestry on Three-toed Woodpeckers, Brown Creeper, and other dead-wood dependent birds. After earning a PhD in ecology from the University of Sherbrooke, QC, where I studied reproductive phenology in eastern grey kangaroos in Australia, I returned home to New Brunswick and to birds. An animal ecologist by study, I have focused my career on conservation planning, gaining training and experience in applying the Open Standards for Conservation Planning through community and science-driven knowledge. I hope to help Birds Canada and partners better connect to communities to find the best conservation solutions for people and for birds.
Denise Maillet
New Brunswick Piping Plover Coordinator
506-742-2600
As a fourth generation lobster fisher I grew up on the seashore and lived from the sea. This gave me a great respect for all that lives in coastal areas. After making a choice to pursue environmental studies I got my first summer job working to protect the endangered Piping Plovers that nest on the beaches of my home province of New Brunswick. I was hooked. From the time I started working with Piping Plovers in 1995 I’ve had the privilege of helping to protect the coastal habitats that I hold so dear. And the birds whose survival depends on coastal habitats have inspired the way I communicate this passion to the people that share my attraction to these remarkable places. It’s been a dream come true to spend so much time on beaches, dunes and in marshes. Getting to know the birds that live there and sharing this passion with the thousands that would join our guided walks and special presentations throughout the years has given me a sense of accomplishment that can’t be measured.
Allison Manthorne
Associate Director, Atlantic Programs & Aerial Insectivore Conservation Strategist
506-227-9202
Samreen Munim
Forest Birds at Risk Field Biologist
Avery Nagy-MacArthur
Nova Scotia Shorebird Programs Biologist
Heather Polowyk
Aerial Insectivore Conservation Biologist
Sydney Shepherd
Ontario Piping Plover Program Coordinator
ASSESSING THE STATE OF CANADA’S BIRDS
SECTOR-LEADING SCIENCE AND LARGE-SCALE POPULATION MONITORING TO INFORM THE CONSERVATION OF ALL BIRD GROUPS
Laura Achenbach
Field Manager, High Elevation Landbird Program
I was already in my 20s when I first fell in love with birds, and after learning their songs during a university work term I was shocked and delighted at how much the world opened up around me; a walk in nature truly is never the same again.I have always been passionate about conservation, and I find a particular satisfaction in knowing that my work at Birds Canada has a tangible effect on both birds and the rest of the creatures with which they share their habitats. While my main role is to lead the field season looking for the enigmatic Bicknell's Thrush, I have the pleasure of working in various capacities for almost all of the the Atlantic programs including Motus, Marsh Monitoring, the Nocturnal Owl Survey, and the Newfoundland Breeding Bird Atlas.
Tracy Barber
Data Entry Technician
519-586-3531 ext. 133
Being a naturalist I enjoy hiking in any of our great Canadian seasons. I have worked in my current position at Birds Canada for over a decade. During this time have had the fortuity to observe the advancement and betterment of Birds Canada and to have worked on numerous projects across the country. I am very proud to be a part of this wonderful organization engaged in the guardianship of wild birds and their habitats.
Kaelyn Bumelis
Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas – 3 Project Manager
519-586-3531
Catherine Dale, PH.D.
Newfoundland Atlas Coordinator
613-484-1217
My job brings together two of the things I’m most passionate about – ornithology and science outreach. I believe strongly in the importance of Citizen Science, and I’m eagerly anticipating working with volunteers across Newfoundland to make the province’s first breeding bird atlas happen. I recently completed a Ph.D. studying migration patterns in Western Bluebirds breeding in British Columbia, and am now enjoying learning all about the birds of Newfoundland!
Courtney Donkersteeg
Analyst
Danielle Ethier, PH.D.
Senior Scientist
519-586-3531 ext. 115
Rick Gao
Web Application Developer
My connection to birds comes from the love of the outdoors and leafing through North American field guides as a kid. My background is in Environmental Sciences but my professional career has been in software development, specifically web based data visualizations. My role at Birds Canada as a web developer is to help grow NatureCounts (naturecounts.ca) and the Motus Wildlife Tracking System (motus.org).
Jeremy Hussell
Programmer
519-586-3531 ext. 125
While I like software development, I especially enjoy being able to pursue it in a relatively untouched natural area instead of a downtown city core.I’m a software developer currently devoting my time to the Motus Wildlife Tracking System, a collaborative research network that is improving our knowledge of the movements of birds and other animals. My parents were involved in founding Long Point Bird Observatory, which later spawned Birds Canada, so I have a long history with the organization.
Catherine Jardine
Associate Director, Data Science and Technology
Kathy Jones
Volunteer Manager and Biologist, Ontario Programs, Canadian Lakes Loon Survey & Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program
519-586-3531 ext. 124
I am an avid supporter of conservation, habitat stewardship, and biodiversity, in the strength of grassroots community actions, and that each individual can make a difference. I spent my childhood in Long Point, Ontario next to the Big Creek National Wildlife Area. There I formed a great love for boating, wetlands, wildlife, and all things aquatic. I hold an H.B.Sc. in Wildlife Ecology and Environmental Studies from the University of Guelph, a M.Sc.F in Wildlife Management from Lakehead University and Volunteer Management accreditation from Humber College. Past work in tourism, retail, raptor and duck research and data management as well as experience collaborating with Citizen Scientists has led me to my present job. My three beautiful and almost adult children have taught me that yes, your beliefs can be instilled in the next generation and that this is hope for our future.
Amy-Lee Kouwenberg, PH.D.
Associate Director, Atlantic Programs
LeeAnn Latremouille
Saskatchewan Atlas Coordinator
306-249-2894
I have always been drawn to nature; whether I was collecting beetles in my lunch kit or spending hours looking for snakes, nature was a big part of my childhood. After completing a diploma in Environmental and Wildlife Management I began working on avian monitoring projects and was immediately hooked. I went on to complete a BSc in Environmental Biology from McGill University where I received the Tomlinson engagement award for mentoring. I enjoy interacting with people and sharing my love of nature, a trait which serves me well in my current role. This work allows me to help others learn about birds while also affording me time alone in nature, both of which keep me inspired. I do what I do in the hopes that I can motivate others to help protect wildlife and the habitats they depend on.
Jenna McDermott
Newfoundland Atlas Assistant Coordinator
I spent much of my childhood out in nature; camping, hiking, and exploring, which sparked my belief in the need for conservation of our natural world. It wasn’t until a volunteer opportunity working with Wood Thrush in Ontario after completing my Bachelor degree in Wildlife Biology that my eyes (and ears!) were opened to the world of birds. Having completed a Masters degree studying Gray-cheeked Thrush distribution in Newfoundland, I am keen to keep exploring the remoteness and resilience of the birds there. My position with Birds Canada gives me that opportunity, as well as a greater opportunity to share this wonderful avian world with our amazing host of volunteers!
Rémi Torrenta, PH.D.
BC Projects Coordinator
236-990-1287
After 8 years of work experience with forest birds in eastern Canada – including coordinating the Atlantic Nocturnal Owl Survey and the High Elevation Landbird Program –, I am now thrilled to dedicate my energy to monitoring, research and conservation projects related to western birds. Since I was very young, my passion for wildlife and birds has never faded. Before joining Birds Canada, I obtained my MSc in Ecology in the south of France, and then a PhD at Université de Moncton, NB. I have always been fascinated by the great enthusiasm for birds of Canadian volunteers, and by their considerable investment in collecting important data for science and conservation! This motivates me even more to run and deliver our Citizen Science programs, as well as various education and research projects in BC, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories.
IMPORTANT PLACES FOR BIRDS
NATURE- BASED SOLUTIONS TO PROTECT THE HAVENS OF BIRDS AND BIODIVERSITY
Chelsea Aristone
Key Biodiversity Area Technician
I was initially inspired to get involved in conservation science after working on research relating to invasive species and human impacts on aquatic ecosystems during my undergraduate degree. While pursuing an academic career in environmental science, my appreciation for and connection with nature has continued to grow and has allowed me to connect with others who share this same passion. I am constantly inspired by friends and colleagues in this field of work and am so grateful to be a part of the Birds Canada team. I am excited to be involved with the Key Biodiversity Areas Program and contribute to the work of identifying these areas that are so important for national and global biodiversity.
Lucas Beaver
Indigenous Liaison Coordinator – Northern Canada
My lifelong passion for birds and the natural world has deeply influenced my personal and professional journey. Growing up in rural Northern Ontario, I was immersed in environmental exploration thanks to my parents' dedication to conservation. My interest in birding was ignited in 2005 through the Doug Tarry Young Ornithologists Workshop and subsequent internship at Long Point Bird Observatory. Professionally, I’ve worked across governments, non-profits, consulting firms, and First Nations communities, focusing mainly on building capacity for scientifically sound environmental assessments within Indigenous territories. My experience spans diverse sampling protocols, from the ancient Lake Sturgeon to the resilient Monarch. I am excited to bring my skills to Birds Canada and the Growing Capacity for Science in the North project, where I look forward to collaborating with Northern communities and aligning our priorities for impactful conservation.
Email: lbeaver @ birdscanada.org
Amanda Bichel
Key Biodiversity Areas Coordinator
519-586-3531 ext. 167
My role is coordinating the Key Biodiversity Areas Program for Birds Canada. I get to work with partners, experts, government, Indigenous peoples, and more on transitioning our Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas to KBAs. I am lucky to work with enthusiastic, dedicated people to identify the most important places for biodiversity in Canada. Identifying these amazing places is the first step to meaningful conservation. I have a background in Environmental Studies and Biology, and have worked with birds, bats, soil, and water. Connecting with nature is what motivates me to work in conservation. I hope to give the next generation the same (or better) opportunity to experience the beauty of nature I’ve enjoyed my whole life.
Molly Bradford
Key Biodiversity Areas Technician
Dean Evans
GIS Spatial Analyst
519-586-3531 ext. 171
I first fell in love with birds during my undergraduate degree in Ecology and Environmental Biology in the beautiful grassland interior of British Columbia. Since then my career has taken me across to country to study Chimney Swift Roost abundance in northern Ontario, Barn Swallow post-fledging ecology in southern Ontario for my Masters degree, and boreal landbird distribution and abundance in the Northwest Territories. During this time, I have developed many technical skills for the management and automation of count, acoustic, and spatial bird data. In my current role at Birds Canada I am a part of the Landscape Science and Conservation team where I work as GIS Spatial Analyst. Here I am able use my technical expertise to aid in the understanding and conservation of wild bird species.
Cléa Frapin
Habitat Conservation Planner - Northern Canada
I’ve always been fascinated by wildlife, particularly in the North. Originally from France, I moved to New Brunswick, Canada, in 2018 to pursue a MSc in seasonal trophic interaction modeling across the Arctic biome. Since 2019, I’ve been fortunate to both participate in and lead Arctic ecosystem monitoring fieldwork programs in eastern and western Nunavut, with a focus on shorebirds and lemmings monitoring. I previously worked with Birds Canada on Piping Plover and Bicknell Thrush monitoring programs in the Atlantic. I am now very excited to continue working on Northern habitat conservation and to contribute to the development of Indigenous-led conservation initiatives with the Science in the North project. I will be able to provide scientific support for conservation planning, spatial data mapping, and bird monitoring training.Email: cfrapin @ birdscanada.org
Thomas Gianoli
Bird Monitoring Biologist - Northern Canada
I caught the ornithology bug in 2017, this fantastic field filled with extremely dedicated and passionate people, through my first experiences with FICEDULA, a Ticino NGO for birds’ conservation (my wonderful canton of origin in Switzerland), and Observatoire d’oiseaux de Tadoussac (OOT). Through the years, I have been able to develop my knowledge and thrive, first by realizing my dream of becoming bander in charge at the OOT banding station at Cap-Tourmente, then by working with the Canadian Wildlife Service for 3 straight winters to analyze and manage ARU data and contribute, among other things, to the conservation of Bicknell’s Thrush in Nova Scotia. I am now ready to take on this new incredible challenge with Birds Canada and contribute, through my past experiences, to advancing bird conservation in the boreal forest!e-mail: tgianoli @ birdscanada.org
Kevin Hawkshaw
Biostatistics Analyst
Sandra Marquez
GIS Analyst
My interest is in preventing habitat deterioration and animal population decline. Like many others, I am deeply saddened knowing that beautiful species have become extinct and will never return to the earth because of lack of planning and human comprehension.I am passionate about geospatial technologies and applying them to improve the world around us. I firmly believe that making decisions based on geography is basic to human thinking.My academic knowledge and experience is in Ecology, Digital Geography and GIS, Database Management, Web GIS, GIS mobile apps, automation, and spatial data collection. For more than 12 years, I have applied GIS technologies to a variety of studies including environmental impact assessments, natural heritage studies, socioeconomic, aboriginal, land use studies, wetland delineation, hydrogeology, hydrology, and animal population dynamics among others.Being part of Birds Canada, I have the opportunity to work for a science-based organization and contribute my experience and knowledge to conserve wild birds and prevent their extinction.
Graham Sorenson
Science in the North Project Manager
LONG POINT BIRD OBSERVATORY
BUILDING ON OUR PROUD HISTORY OF LONG POINT STEWARDSHIP, MIGRATION RESEARCH, INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION, EDUCATION, AND COMMUNITY
Rinchen Boardman
Thunder Cape Bird Observatory Coordinator
807-251-3673
Having spent many years witnessing the miracle of avian migration I continue to be both humbled and inspired by how we fit on this planet. For the past 6 years I have been the Program Coordinator of Thunder Cape Bird Observatory. I recruit and train Volunteers in bird handling and manage the operation of our robust protocol for both of our spring and autumn seasons on the north shore of Lake Superior. During breeding season geo tagging Grey-cheeked Thrush and Blackpoll Warblers has drawn me to Newfoundland and Labrador. Perhaps with information gleaned by my efforts we humans can learn from the myriad of avian species crossing geographical and human boundaries. Their precious presence and perseverance reflects the best of our abilities.
Kyle Cameron
Ontario Projects Biologist
519-586-3531 ext. 151
I have been interested in birds from a very young age. This interest grew into a passion during my studies at Trent University. After graduating, I volunteered at Long Point Bird Observatory and I was hooked. I went on to work as the Program Coordinator for the observatory and enjoyed incorporating education and outreach into the work I do as much as possible. Currently, as the Ontario Projects Biologist I am able to provide contributions to numerous Birds Canada projects including the Forest Birds at Risk Program, Forest Bird Monitoring Program, and the Long Point Bird Observatory. I am very excited to be collecting data that guide conservation policy and garner a deep understanding of bird behaviour and ecology.
Matthew Fuirst, PH.D.
Manager of Observatory Operations and Postdoctoral Researcher
519-586-3531 ext. 110
Samuel Perfect
LPBO Program Coordinator
INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION & CONSERVATION
INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIPS TO FILL CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE GAPS AND SUPPORT OUR SHARED RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONSERVING MIGRATORY BIRDS
Lucas Berrigan
Motus Manager - Technology and Web Development
506-364-5185
Fel Castañeda Gamboa
Impact & Storytelling Manager – International Cooperation and Conservation
Erica Geldart
Motus Coordinator – Outreach and Analytics
Kianna Leung
Motus Technician
Amie MacDonald
Motus Manager - Migration Science
506-232-1219
Josh Sayers
Motus Manager – Infrastructure and Support
MOBILIZING PEOPLE IN CANADA
WELCOMING ALL BIRD ENTHUSIASTS, RAISING AWARENESS, AND PROVIDING MEANINGFUL OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE TO TAKE ACTIONS
Yousif Attia
Outreach & Content Specialist
519-586-3531 ext. 198
Stephanie Brunet
Bilingual Communications Coordinator
I grew up in rural Eastern Ontario, where I developed a keen interest in observing and learning about the wonderful birds that inhabit Canada. After completing my degree in Biology, I pursued communications roles in environmental and sustainability organizations. I have been following Birds Canada and its amazing initiatives and programs for many years. Now, I am excited to apply my passion for birds in a professional capacity as a Bilingual Communications Coordinator here at Birds Canada.
Olivia Carvalho
Community Engagement Specialist
Kris Cu
BC Outreach Specialist
I grew up in the bustling city of Manila, Philippines and often watched the Pied Fantails forage around the neighbour’s garden. Upon moving to Canada, I’ve completed a Biological Sciences degree from Simon Fraser University and have embarked on numerous science communication roles. In my current role, I support the Birds Canada team through photography, videography, social media, outreach and connecting minority communities to birds and the natural world.
Kris Dobney
Donor Relations Coordinator
519-586-3531 ext. 121
kris @ birdscanada.org
Ayla Empey
Brand Communications Manager
Growing up on the Thames River in Southwestern Ontario, I have always had a deep appreciation for birds. My love for nature and adventure led me west, where I worked in tourism across British Columbia and Alberta before moving to Australia. With a special focus on digital marketing and brand communications, my work has spanned industries including travel, wine and conservation, most recently working for BirdLife Australia. Back home, I am excited to join the team at Birds Canada, and look forward to inspiring conservation action through storytelling and communication.
Karla Falk
Donor Relations Assistant
519-586-3531 ext. 122
I have always had a passion for being outside and exploring new places. This led me to my first field job in boreal forests of northern Ontario, where I discovered the world of birds and have been watching and learning more about birds ever since. I completed my M.Sc. on the nesting patterns of forest birds, married into a birding family, and have been raising two young girls with a love of nature. I am an environmentalist at heart, always striving to live mindfully and enjoy gardening, cooking and volunteering in my local community. I am excited to be part of the Birds Canada team, working with other like-minded individuals and supporters to conserve wild birds and their habitats.Email: kfalk @ birdscanada.org
Trish Gergich
Manager, Leadership Giving
I was lucky to spend many summer beach days in Long Point and West Mabou, Cape Breton Island growing up. Two very magical places. Even at a young age, I knew these protected areas were environmentally significant. It was only as an adult did I realize how important they are for birds. After many years fundraising for education and hospice, I’m excited to help protect these magical places and birds along with you!e-mail: tgergich @ birdscanada.org
Andrea Gress
Special Projects Coordinator
519-586-3531 ext. 128
Laura Hill
Individual Giving Coordinator
As a mixed-Indigenous woman (Onoñda’gegá) born and raised on Six Nations reserve, I hold deep respect and care for Mother Nature, including birds. From an early age, I immersed myself in the melodies of birdsong in the garden alongside my father and embraced the cultural significance of birds like the eagle, hawk, snipe, and heron. From birth, birds have been an integral part of my story. Though my journey began rooted in the natural world, it has led me into the philanthropy sector, where I have worked for the past eight years. One of my favourite aspects of fundraising is connecting people to causes that resonate with them and helping them take meaningful action through giving. If you want to create change by making a gift for birds, I would love to connect with you! Please feel free to reach out to me at lhill @ birdscanada.org.
Kyle Horner
NatureCounts Engagement Coordinator
Rosie Kirton
Donor Database Manager
I hail from a small town in southern Ontario. I’m very passionate about my career at Birds Canada, and it shows. I’ve worked here for over 25 years maintaining the member/donor database. Working for Birds Canada has been very inspirational, learning something new every day about birds. Their beauty, their serenading calls, are majestic and should not be taken for granted. As a wife, mother, and now grand-mother, I take great pride in my family role too. When I’m not spending time with my family or working, my favourite thing to do is gardening and crafts.
Liz Purves
Grants Manager
519-586-3531
FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Hope Brown-Smail
Payroll & Treasury Accountant
I was raised with an appreciation and respect for birds and wildlife. My family spent many Sundays in Long Point walking through the provincial park and along the beach to do some bird watching, snake spotting, and enjoying any other wild species we happened to come across. I enjoy nature walks with my family and some backyard bird feeder watching to keep both myself and our cats entertained. I am happy to be part of the Finance Team at Birds Canada and to be able to support the organization in its efforts in conservation.e-mail: hbrownsmail @ birdscanada.org
Katie Desjardins
Executive and Human Resources Assistant
519-586-3531
I grew up on the shores of Lake Wanapitei in Greater Sudbury, Ontario, and developed a passion for nature and observing wildlife in their natural habitat, including my favourite bird, the Common Loon.I’m honoured to work with such a passionate group who is dedicated to bird conservation using sound science and evidence-based research.
Tawnee Dwyer
Accounts Receivable Accountant
Ruth Frost
Office Operations Manager
519-586-3531 ext. 112
I grew up in northern Ontario, in the boreal forest, and have long been passionate about conservation of our wild places. I am a former photo agent, and have worked with multiple news and photo archives over the course of my career, including archives dedicated to natural history. I also have experience in HR and Finance roles, and am thrilled to use these skills to push the mandate of Birds Canada forward: conservation!
Claire Melanson
Executive Assistant
I am lucky to have grown up spending my summers outdoors in the Canadian Rocky Mountains surrounded by incredible nature. My appreciation of nature deepened in 2020 when I discovered my love of bird watching. I am thrilled to contribute to bird conservation by supporting the Birds Canada Board of Directors.
Chris Uzun
Accounting Associate
As an Indigenous person, my connection to nature is deeply rooted in my culture. While travelling in Canada, I have had the privilege of viewing some of the most diverse avian life in our country, including my favourite bird, the Atlantic Puffin! With an educational background in Business Administration and professional experience in Accounts Payable, I am excited to have the opportunity to apply my prior knowledge and developed skills to help support and advance the key mission at Birds Canada: increase the understanding, appreciation, and conservation of birds. e-mail: cuzun @ birdscanada.org
Micheline Volpini
Accounts Payable Accountant