Our Staff

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.

Bluesky Handle: @patnad.bsky.social

Growing up in rural Denmark, I spent most of my childhood outdoors. My passion for nature led to me to pursue a PhD in Conservation Social Science (Geography) focused on protected area establishment in central Romania. I’ve since worked for environmental non-profits and as a researcher on various projects pertaining to terrestrial and marine conservation, northern housing, and social enterprises. I’m an avid hiker with a particular love for coastal environments. 

519-586-3531 – Ext. 139

I am from Southern Ontario and am lucky to have grown up in a family that has always been interested in and appreciative of wild birds and their habitats, having made many trips to the Long Point area and the Long Point Bird Observatory in all seasons over the years. As a nature lover, one of my greatest joys is seeing wild things interacting with their natural environment and each other. I joined Birds Canada in 2022 and am passionate about supporting the people who are working tirelessly to preserve birds and their habitats.

519-586-3531

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.

Pete’s passion for birds and the natural world took flight around the age of six. He has been fortunate enough to turn that love into a 30+ year career dedicated to bird conservation, working at the NGO-government-academic nexus on four continents (North America, Europe, Africa and Asia). Twenty of those years have been with Birds Canada, in field research, volunteer-based science, management, senior advisory, and now Vice President roles. He holds a Masters degree in Ecology, has authored two books, more than 25 peer-reviewed journal papers, including describing two species new to western science, and many technical reports and popular articles on bird status and conservation. Pete’s nature-based worldview is influenced by multiple cultures, and he now enjoys the privilege of stewarding a small patch of coastal douglas-fir ecosystem on Salt Spring Island on the Pacific Coast, where he lives and works. He is deeply interested in the influence of human activities and societies on bird populations and ecosystem health, and finding scalable solutions that can tip the balance back toward thriving systems.

I have been an avid birder since 2021 and bring more than twenty years of experience in fundraising. This role allows me to unite my passion for birds with a long‑standing commitment to philanthropy and development. I work to align the priorities of donors and funders with those of Birds Canada so that, together, we can help secure a future for Canada’s wild birds.

For the last 15+ years, I have worked in the not-for-profit sector leading marketing and communication efforts that help to connect people to each other and the planet. I have also worked in corporate advertising, media relations, marketing, and branding, and hold a Bachelor of Design from OCAD University. I am excited to join Birds Canada in this role with the opportunity to mobilize even more people in Canada to take meaningful actions that conserve birds.

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 Atlantic programs including Motus, Marsh Monitoring, the Nocturnal Owl Survey, and the Newfoundland Breeding Bird Atlas.

I grew up in a rural area outside of Ottawa and have loved spending time outdoors, exploring the rich biodiversity of the Frontenac Axis, for as long as I can remember! My love for the natural world and desire to learn more about it led me to pursue my Honours Bachelor of Science in Animal Behaviour at Western University, where I first began learning to identify the birds I had grown up admiring. I spent five summers as a Naturalist with Ontario Parks, working mainly with snakes, turtles, and dragonflies, but taking pictures and documenting just about anything else I could find. This is also where I was truly introduced to the ever-captivating world of birding. I have always been passionate about conservation and am proud to work for an organization that has such a positive impact on these special creatures.

Growing up in Nova Scotia, I spent most of my time in the forest or on the ocean, and the rest solving puzzles or doing math problems. My passion for math and puzzles led me to complete a bachelor's degree in math and physics at Dalhousie University, followed by a master's degree in pure math at McGill University where I studied logic. After graduating from McGill, I changed direction in my career. I focused more on the reasons behind the problems and the impacts of the solutions rather than just the puzzles themselves. My work at Birds Canada allows me to bring that passion to problems that have lasting implications on our environment and all of its inhabitants.

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 133

I have been fascinated by birds since a young age. After completing my Master’s on the post-breeding behaviour of Swainson’s Thrushes at Acadia University, I joined the Birds Canada’s team in the Atlantic Region in 2018 to run the Maritimes Marsh Monitoring Program. Since then, I have taken on more responsibilities related to the Motus Wildlife Tracking System – namely, managing the Atlantic array of Motus receiver stations and supporting Motus users worldwide. I am proud to be part of Birds Canada and contributing to a greater understanding of birds and their environment.

506-364-5185

I’ve been interested in birds and their conservation for as long as I can remember. Prior to my current role, I completed a postdoc at our Birds Canada head office in Ontario and the University of Guelph on migration and breeding phenology in Tree Swallows. My Ph.D. was conducted in New Zealand on the ecology and conservation of an endangered endemic bird, the North Island Kokako. I’ve also been involved in behavioural studies of Neotropical birds in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia. Two of my current projects include an invasive mammalian predator study in Haida Gwaii (one of my favourite natural environments) and a Long-billed Curlew migration tracking study in the Kootenay Mountains.

604-401-6850

I first fell in love with Ontario while on a backpacking trip from England in 2014, where I volunteered at a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Muskoka, and have been drawn back ever since. I was in awe of the diversity and beauty in the wildlife in Canada and the huge undisturbed habitats for nature. I have had a few roles at Birds Canada but am now happy to be the Program Coordinator for Long Point Bird Observatory based at the Old Cut Research Station. I help to run the migration monitoring programs as well as engaging the public with the work we are doing and inspiring the next generation of birders and conservationists. One of the best parts of my job is training volunteers from all over the world and seeing them to go on to get jobs in conservation. I love that the Observatory is always looking for new ways to learn about and help conserve birds either with new technologies or collaborative research!

I have always been drawn to the outdoors. However, my introduction to avian research was as a wildlife technician studying aerial insectivores during the summers of my undergraduate studies. This led me to pursue a Master of Science in Biology at Western University studying niche segregation among sympatric Barn, Cliff, and Tree swallows. As the Aerial Insectivore Program Coordinator, I work with different groups to coordinate monitoring, research, stewardship, and outreach for aerial insectivores in Ontario. I am also working as the Assistant Coordinator for the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. The Atlas is a collaborative project that aims to map the relative abundance and distribution of the birds that breed in Ontario – data that inform science, conservation, and policy. I feel extremely fortunate to work alongside the dedicated volunteers, collaborators, and Birds Canada staff towards our shared goal of bird conservation.

519-586-3531

As a web application developer, I build interactive websites that make complex data intuitive and accessible to everyone, from academic researchers to the general public. I believe connecting with nature is essential for our health and well-being, and I'm proud to use my technical skills to build tools that help people understand, appreciate, and protect the ecosystems that connect us all. When I'm not at my desk, you can find me volunteering with local conservation authorities or enjoying nature photography.

Since completing my master’s degree in computer science, I’ve been focused on building research data platforms to help scientists analyze, track, and publish their datasets, and leveraged these platforms to help maximize the utility of expensive and time-consuming data collection efforts. Over the past seven years my focus has been on standardizing and cataloguing a wide range of environmental data to increase its reuse and impact. As someone who loves exploring my natural surroundings, whether on foot, bike, or kayak, I’m very happy to use my skills to help better understand and protect the bird species and ecosystems that make Canada’s natural environment so special.

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!

613-484-1217

My passion for the environment and species conservation has allowed me to develop a strong interest in turning complex datasets into clear, actionable insights that support bird research and protection. Through my role, I help to manage and analyze data from citizen science programs across the country, contributing to projects that empower communities and make scientific data more accessible and impactful. Outside of work, I enjoy taking long kayak trips and finding new hiking trails to explore.

As a software developer, I have a passion for using technology to support the missions of those around me. When I started banding birds and discovered how much ecological data is collected yet remains inaccessible, it felt like the perfect intersection of my skills and interests. At Birds Canada, I am eager to share the complexity and wonder of the world around us through data visualization.

My role with Birds Canada is to unravel patterns and processes driving avian population dynamics using citizen-science dataset collected by bird enthusiasts from across Canada. It is a privilege to mobilize these hard-earned datasets to help resolve key conservation challenges facing avian populations.

519-586-3531 ext. 115

I've been drawn to wildlife biology since I was a kid spending hours investigating insects along streams and reading about birds and mammals. It was not until my undergraduate career (with the help of a close friend) that I became hooked on birding and field ornithology. I have broad interests in understanding the demography and movement ecology of wild animals, with particular research strengths in spatial modelling, avian monitoring and conservation, behavioural ecology, and molecular analyses. I received my MSc from Stony Brook University (in New York), where I studied the foraging and microbial ecology of Herring Gulls. I was awarded a Ph.D. from the University of Guelph where my studies examined the role of dispersal in population dynamics of adult and juvenile Canada Jays in Algonquin Park. Currently, I am responsible for Long Point and Thunder Cape bird observatories, and aspects of the Canadian Migration Monitoring Network, and I am using data from the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey to understand survivorship and contaminants of Common Loons.

519-586-3531 ext. 110

Growing up, I was always passionate about wildlife, and I knew I wanted to pursue this passion in my career. I am happy to have been able to do so throughout my education and in my current role with Birds Canada. Prior to joining Birds Canada, I studied Common Eiders in the Canadian low Arctic for my Master’s degree and I studied the stopover movement ecology of Semipalmated Sandpipers and Semipalmated Plover in Atlantic Canada for my undergraduate research. During my undergraduate work, I realized the value of the Motus Wildlife Tracking System as a research tool, and I am proud to now be able to do my part to help the network run smoothly for other research initiatives in my work with Birds Canada. Specifically, I assist with the deployment and maintenance of Motus equipment in the Atlantic Canada Region, and the management, analysis and communication of data.

With a lifelong passion for natural history, I've been birding for as long as I can remember. I have undertaken a range of avian research roles globally, with a particular focus on bird observatories. These experiences have allowed me to enjoy the hands-on aspects of fieldwork while also gaining a deep appreciation for the scientific background that underpins ecological monitoring. My interests shaped my academic route, leading me to complete an MSc in Applied Ecology and Conservation which involved fieldwork in the Seychelles, where I conducted post-translocation monitoring of an endemic warbler. Having spent my childhood outdoors, seldom far from a pair of binoculars, I’ve been fortunate to receive a range of opportunities that have helped shape my career. This has motivated me to support other ornithologists and researchers by providing similar opportunities and guidance, all while working to advance the understanding and protection of birds. I have a strong passion for avian migration and particularly enjoy studying the moult of birds up close. Where better to do that than Long Point?

My connection to birds began at the hands of my father, who introduced me to the local birdlife before I could walk or talk. He is also a prodigious storyteller, and it wasn't long before I gleefully inherited that pastime, too. From a young age I was obsessed with talking about nature to others (whether or not they wanted to hear it), and my career has been spent doing just that. I have worked in environmental education and science communication for parks, zoos, botanical gardens, outreach programs, non-profits, and the University of Guelph. As the NatureCounts Engagement Coordinator, I am excited to find the stories in the data and share the incredible potential of this fascinating project.

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 125

Data form the foundation of science, and I see maximizing the availability, interpretation, and communication of data as foundational to achieving conservation outcomes. My works with Birds Canada focuses on supporting hundreds of research and monitoring projects investigating the ecology, distribution and population dynamics of all bird species through two main platforms; NatureCounts (naturecounts.ca) and the Motus Wildlife Tracking System (motus.org).

My love for the outdoors began as a child hiking and camping around Nova Scotia, but it wasn’t until my undergraduate Ornithology course where I fell in love with birds. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work on several research projects across the Maritimes which allowed me to dive further into bird conservation and monitoring, in particular getting acquainted with the Motus Wildlife Tracking System. During my Master’s I investigated how increasing summer temperatures might impact Snow Bunting nesting behaviour and physiology on their low-Arctic breeding grounds. I am excited to be joining the Motus team where I will be managing the Motus station array in Atlantic Canada, helping develop more partnerships with station hosts, and deploying new Motus stations across the region.

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 124

I developed an interest in birds at an age too early to remember, which grew into a broader passion for nature. I have been fortunate to build a career around this interest. During my graduate studies in molecular ecology and evolution, I worked with natural history museums and later completed postdoctoral fellowships at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Royal Ontario Museum. My focus shifted toward applied conservation at the Toronto Zoo, where I began as Curator of Birds and Invertebrates, and developed an interest in the human dimensions of conservation. I have since taken on leadership roles focused on building effective teams. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and canoeing with my wife and kids, fostering their connection to nature.

I coordinate the High Elevation Landbird Program, monitoring Bicknell’s Thrush and other birds in remote forests of northern New Brunswick and the Cape Breton Highlands. I work with forestry managers and regulators to protect habitat in the industrial forest. I also coordinate the Atlantic Nocturnal Owl Survey, a tremendous Citizen Scientist-based effort to census owls in the Atlantic provinces. My interest in birds started on my family’s farm in Nova Scotia particularly raising and showing chickens as a member of my local 4-H club. My interest expanded to wild birds when my I befriended a family of bird watchers during my undergrad in Ontario, eventually leading to my Ph.D. studying the awe-inspiring seabirds of Newfoundland and British Columbia. The remarkable physical abilities and incredible variation among birds, paired with the passion and perseverance of people who work to conserve them, is what inspires my efforts for birds.

I think that my main driving force is a deep appreciation and respect for nature, and a desire to help protect it, which I was able to combine with a passion for computer science and data throughout most of my career. I get the most satisfaction in knowing that my role at Birds Canada is empowering the work of other people through the use of technologies, whether they are citizen scientists like me helping collect data, or people wanting to apply the knowledge these data provide for conservation and research. One of my main roles is to oversee the development and operations of the Motus and NatureCounts data platforms, the latter of which supports most of our citizen science programs (atlases, eBird Canada, etc.). I am based at Long Point, Ontario, where I thoroughly enjoy the spectacle of bird migration as often as I can. I also manage a web site called Avibase, which organizes bird data from around the world.

519-586-3531 ext. 155

I first joined Birds Canada in 2022 as a summer field technician to assist with the expansion of the Motus Wildlife Tracking System in northeastern BC and I've been hooked on birds ever since! As the BC Motus Technician, my role primarily focuses on supporting the growth and utilization of the Motus receiver network in Western Canada. Prior to my current role, my passion for wildlife conservation led me to complete a BSc in Ecology at Simon Fraser University and more recently a Fish & Wildlife Diploma at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Since joining the Motus team and Birds Canada, I've had the pleasure of working alongside dedicated Birds Canada staff, collaborators, and volunteers on migration connectivity tagging projects involving White-throated Sparrows and at-risk Bank Swallows.

I’m working to expand the Motus Wildlife Tracking System in Western Canada. Prior to joining Birds Canada, I studied Red Knots on the James Bay coast for my Masters degree. I also spent several years working as a field technician, primarily with shorebirds in the Bay of Fundy and James Bay, but also with seabirds, passerines, and small mammals on various projects. I love being in the field and I’m interested in migration, population ecology, and the conservation of highly mobile species.
506-232-1219

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 162

I was lucky to grow up on one of the Southern Gulf Islands and be surrounded by the wonderful land and sea stewarded by the Snuneymuxw people for time immemorial. In particular, memories of the great congregations of wildlife looking to feast on herring as they spawned off the beach mark important moments drawing me towards a life spent dedicated to the conservation and understanding of the natural world. I joined Birds Canada in 2024 and have worked primarily on coastal waterbirds in British Columbia, but increasingly on projects across the country. I look forward to continuing to use my analytical skills to further Birds Canada's mission!

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!

Having been rather nomadic over the years, being from the UK, and graduating with a BSc in Environmental Science, I began a career working at European bird observatories. This has given me the chance to engage with a variety of bird species ranging from passerines to seabirds (secretly using the opportunity to see as many Lepidoptera as possible …shhh). My career then took me to Canada where I landed at LPBO. Here, the learning never ends when surrounded by the talented folks at Birds Canada. Inspired by the wild landscape that is Long Point I find it a privilege to participate in the array of research topics which shed light on the human influences on the natural world. I am based at The Tip for most of the year where you can find me working with a dedicated team of volunteers. I am always happy to foster interest so please pay us a visit at LPBO!

From a childhood spent exploring the outdoors, to my current work in avian conservation, I believe that our relationship with nature is fostered through moments of wonder and discovery. Inspired by the unique pathways through which we each develop our love of birds and the natural world, my graduate research at the University of Guelph brings together ecology, science education, and an exploration of the lifecycle of volunteer-contributed data. I strive to recognize the human stories behind the data while translating it into the strong, evidence-based science needed to protect birds and the ecosystems we all rely on. I’m excited to work alongside the dedicated volunteers and collaborators in the Birds Canada community to turn our collective sense of wonder into meaningful conservation action.

I’ve been hooked on birds ever since I can remember. For example, as a kid I got (a bit) annoyed when my family went on holidays to Disney World, because it meant I missed Canada Jay nest-finding with my Dad for a research project in Algonquin Park. Naturally, my academic and professional career has focused on developing workable conservation solutions for birds, and raising awareness of the importance of these animals. Currently, I work on waterbirds and wetlands by directing the Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program, Canadian Lakes Loon Survey, and Long Point Waterfowl and Wetlands Research Program.

519-586-3531 ext. 168

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.

236-990-1287

I’ve been exploring the natural world since I could walk, and from the day I opened my first field guide my life has been all about birds. Today, the only thing I love more than studying birds is sharing this passion with others; inspiring people to ask questions about nature and empowering them to seek answers. I work jointly with Birds Canada and the Birds of the World team at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, where I am reimagining the ways we can bring together the kinds of data we collect from birds in the hand to generate new insights and advance research to fuel effective conservation efforts. I am based near Long Point, Ontario, where I spend much of my free time chasing and studying hawks, and working with the Red-tailed Hawk Project.

For as long as I can remember, I've been driven by a deep desire to be outside. From bugs to plants to birds and everything in between, I've always loved learning about the other living beings with whom we share a home. While completing a BSc in Environmental Biology, I helped with research projects on shorebirds and grassland and boreal songbirds throughout Saskatchewan, including Sanderling and Barn Swallows, and got hopelessly hooked on all varieties of ecology. Since joining Birds Canada in August of 2025, I have coordinated and deployed Motus stations across Central and Western Canada alongside the rest of the amazing Motus team. It brings me great joy to see our hard work play a role in important research and conservation efforts across the country and around the globe!

My role focuses on supporting the growth of the Motus Wildlife Tracking System and assisting with aspects of our bird observatory operations. I’m responsible for Motus collaborator outreach and communications and maintaining Motus infrastructure in Ontario and beyond. My past research and conservation experience includes bird banding at various observatories, including Long Point Bird Observatory, and studying mammals such as grizzly bears. I am a co-founder and coordinator of the Ontario Badger Project, which has sought to better understand and conserve Ontario’s endangered badger population.

Growing up in K’jipuktuk in Mi’kma’ki (Halifax, NS), I developed a strong connection to the coast and my work in conservation has mostly focused on coastal and marine birds. Tackling issues facing birds and engaging communities in conservation are common threads throughout my career and a good chunk of my work has focused on beaches that are nesting habitat for plover species at risk on Pacific and Atlantic coasts. My work with Birds Canada spans over 13 years and, after a few years away working with Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Service, I’m excited to return to this terrific organization. I currently oversee Piping Plover Conservation and Space to Roost programs and also support other regional initiatives.

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 165

Growing up in Toronto, I always dreamed of getting out of the city. I spent my time obsessing over field guides and exploring any green spaces that the city had to offer. When my dad arranged for us to spend a morning at the Toronto Bird Observatory on the Toronto Islands, this only further fueled the obsession. It felt inevitable that I would eventually pursue a career that revolved around birds, and going back to school in 2016 was the first major step. For my Ph.D research, I used the Motus Wildlife Tracking System to look at the long term effects of nesting in small forest fragments for Wood Thrushes. This allowed me to spend four field seasons living at Long Point, fully immersed in the heart of Ontario’s Carolinian region. I am thrilled to once again be working in this amazingly biodiverse area, and excited to play a key role in the conservation of Ontario’s forest birds.

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. 

I grew up on a mixed farm in western Manitoba where I spent many hours in our pastures exploring nature and being captivated by the birds, bugs and mammals that we shared our land with. I’ve always been fascinated by the natural world and our place in it. That interest drove me to continue to learn about agriculture, obtaining my Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture at the University of Manitoba. Agriculture has such an important role to play in the biodiversity and climate crises we find ourselves in and I am passionate about finding solutions that are mutually beneficial for wildlife, the environment, farmers and ranchers, and society at large. As the Grassland Conservation Manager for Birds Canada I get to work at the interface of agriculture and conservation to find solutions to conserve grassland ecosystems and the birds that make their home there.

204-720-9161

I’m a biologist with a wide range of experience working with birds. Born in England, I have lived in Québec since 1996. Before taking up my current position, I worked for 10 years as a research officer at Laval University. Before that, in England, I worked for the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and the Zoological Society of London. I am also a member of the Québec Breeding Bird Atlas Management Committee and the Scientific Committee of the Observatoire d’oiseaux de Tadoussac, and secretary of the Baillie Fund.

418-649-6062

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.

306-249-2894

Growing up in Toronto, I always loved wildlife, but it wasn’t until leaving home for university that I realized the sheer biodiversity Canada possesses and began transforming that passion into a career dedicated to species at risk conservation and stewardship. Over the years, I have contributed to a variety of herpetology and ornithology projects, leading field surveys, engaging stakeholders, and developing outreach initiatives to conserve species at risk. In my role as an aerial insectivore biologist with Birds Canada, I've had the privilege of working across Ontario, tackling complex conservation challenges, and connecting with a variety of communities while protecting some of the country’s most at-risk and charismatic bird species.

I grew up in rural Nova Scotia and spent much of my time outside searching for critters and playing in the woods. To this day, I regularly prolong hikes by lingering to look at plants, fungi, and of course, birds! During my undergraduate and Master’s degrees at Acadia University, I had opportunities to work with shorebirds, aerial insectivores, and my favourite seabirds: Leach’s Storm-petrels! For my Master’s degree, I looked at predation at Leach’s Storm-petrel colonies, which solidified my desire to do conservation work, and my love for sharing knowledge with others. My position at Birds Canada allows me to do both alongside a team of passionate, inspiring people. Seeing the beginnings of an interest in birds and conservation in someone, or hearing the lengths that a volunteer or landowner goes to in stewarding a species are the best and most uplifting parts of my job!

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.

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.

306-249-2894

Growing up in coastal British Columbia, my fascination with the natural world was encouraged by my parents and teachers from a young age. When I landed a summer job studying seabirds on the East Coast during university, I discovered a career that fulfills my passion for conservation and love of learning. As the Aerial Insectivore Conservation Program Coordinator in the Atlantic Region, I work with a dedicated team of citizen scientists, landowners and partner organizations to improve monitoring and stewardship of swifts and swallows. Now a parent myself, I’m motivated by my children’s boundless curiosity and eagerness to explore our environment. The creativity and passion of volunteers and colleagues inspire me to seek innovative partnerships and strategies to support the conservation of swifts and swallows in Canada.

506-227-9202

I didn’t grow up loving birds and the outdoors, but I’m glad to have stumbled into them through a course in undergrad. I’ve been birding ever since, and have also loved getting involved with research and field work. In my current role, I work with volunteers across Ontario, as well as private and public landowners across southern Ontario, to monitor, study, and conserve forest birds. I love meeting people who are so passionate about forests and forest birds, and greatly enjoy getting to spend so much time outdoors with some of the most at-risk species in Ontario (and dare I say some of the best birds out there?!). I’m lucky to be here!

Jenny Muñoz is an ecologist with expertise in species distributions, biodiversity monitoring, and a deep interest in the responses of birds to environmental and climatic change. She works at the intersection of ecology, data, GIS, reproducible workflows, and statistical modelling to inform evidence-based conservation. Her role in Birds Canada is as the  Science Coordinator for the  Canadian Intermountain and the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Ventures–Canada supporting partners across the Pacific Flyway and Interior British Columbia in advancing bird and habitat conservation. She lives in Vancouver, B.C., where she enjoys hiking, biking, and the ocean.

My lifelong interest in birds began as a young child watching vibrant grosbeaks and finches from the window at my parent’s feeder in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in New York. A move to the Maritimes in my childhood precipitated an obsession with shorebirds, and in 2008 I started volunteering with Birds Canada as a Piping Plover monitor on the south shore of Nova Scotia, which sparked my interest in pursuing a career in ornithology. During my BSc in Biology, I completed an honours project on migratory Whimbrel at Mount Allison University in Sackville, NB., and am currently completing a master’s thesis on the foraging ecology of breeding Arctic and Common terns. I am thrilled to be back at Birds Canada and to get to work with a team of dedicated and talented colleagues on community science and conservation. Outside of work, I enjoy birding by ear, cooking, backpacking, canoeing, gardening and playing the fiddle.

I developed a passion for birds while volunteering at a reserve run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in Scotland, fresh out of high school. Birds have been a guiding theme for me ever since – I did my MSc research on Red Knots in the Netherlands, and my PhD work on Western Sandpipers at SFU. I have worked on bird-related research out of research institutes in Canada, Germany, Panama, the Netherlands, and Australia. In 2018, I joined Birds Canada, where I am currently focusing on market-based instruments to protect grassland birds.

519-586-3531 ext.163

As someone who grew up camping and exploring nature, I’ve loved the outdoors for about as long as I can remember. After taking an ornithology course as a Fish and Wildlife Technology student, bird conservation suddenly came into focus as a passion and a fulfilling career path. Piping Plovers stole my heart instantly during my first contract with Birds Canada in 2023, and I’m grateful to have the chance to continue working alongside such a passionate team to further their recovery in the Great Lakes.

My love of nature started by listening to the dawn chorus as the nylon tent heated up, followed by an afternoon sitting in the first row of an interpretive nature program. I firmly believe that by bridging science with outreach and education, we can foster communities of stewards and tackle environmental goals together. I am grateful to work with Birds Canada on the Ontario Piping Plover program and see the synergy between scientific research and community action every day.

Growing up in the Laurentians of Quebec, at a young age, I was curious about the natural world, often exploring wetlands and playing in the forest, picking up frogs and snakes. Moving across the country to Alberta sparked a new passion for grassland birds and species at risk conservation. For over five years, I have worked as a wildlife biologist, monitoring the risk and impacts of renewables on bats, herps, and birds in Alberta and Saskatchewan using bioacoustics and point count data. I have had the opportunity to engage with a variety of stakeholders to address the challenge of mitigating risks to biodiversity and habitat loss while fighting climate change. Working in a dynamic environment has allowed me to see the integration of more sustainable practices such as dual land use for agriculture and energy production and the formation of partnerships with farmers and ranchers. As the Grasslands Program Biologist at Birds Canada, I am excited to continue to advocate for grassland birds and promote stewardship of the land.

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.

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 152

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 167

I support the management and delivery of all Atlantic and Quebec programs. Born and raised in New Brunswick, I quickly developed a passion for nature and wildlife. My father is a birder and I credit him for helping me become an amateur (but enthusiastic) birder. I completed a Master’s in Environmental Management at the University of New Brunswick in 2015 and have been working in the environmental non-profit sector ever since. Most recently I worked for the Wolastoqey Nation as their Conservation Lead and Consultation Manager.

519-586-3531 Ext. 196

I’m proud to have pioneered work on mapping the distribution, abundance, and migratory connections of birds that is featured regularly in scientific papers, books, popular publications, websites, and field guides. My achievements in bird conservation include election to the College of Fellows of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society. I represent Birds Canada on numerous regional, national, and international conservation initiatives, including Bird Atlases, North American Bird Conservation Initiative, BirdLife International, Partners in Flight, Key Biodiversity Areas, and others. It has been rewarding to see my two decades of leadership at Birds Canada help propel the organization from a locally focused one to a respected national and international partner. I find inspiration in nature, birds, and music, and in sharing these passions with family, friends, and strangers alike.

519-586-3531 ext. 131

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 171

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.

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!

Although a city boy by birth, I developed a passion for biodiversity and the outdoors from a young age during family camping and fishing trips in eastern Canada. Birds became a key interest for me during my education and early work experience, which took me far west and north of my hometown of Toronto, Ontario. I completed a PhD in Wildlife Ecology and Management at the University of Alberta in 2021, studying the foraging habits of Arctic Peregrine Falcons at Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. In addition to covering hundreds of kilometers of Arctic tundra with bird surveys and scrambling over countless rocky outcrops and cliffs to find and monitor peregrine nests, I also honed the analytical skills that are now in the service of grassland bird conservation at Birds Canada. My goal is to use data to drive positive change for birds and their ecosystems.

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.

My passion for the natural world began in high school when I took an environmental studies class. That class led me to complete an environmental studies degree, where my interest in birds began as I created a study comparing passerine diversity among three coastal habitats. This study was the first time I was able to identify new bird species by call, and I was hooked. I have studied forest species at risk in Ontario, including Louisiana Waterthrush, foraging behaviour of aerial insectivores in wetlands, and assisted with a captive breeding program for Loggerhead Shrikes. Now, I coordinate the Atlantic Canada Bank Swallow working group, a group of stakeholders working together to help conserve Bank Swallow populations. I coordinate meetings, data collection, database development and manage and train volunteers.

Mango, acacia and pine trees in over 40 countries have shaded my conversations with elders, farmers, environmental activists, mayors and entrepreneurs. These inspiring women and men made me a feminist change agent fighting for both people and planet. They convinced me that we live at an historic confluence of crises – climate, biodiversity, food, gender equality. These crises, like migratory birds, do not respect borders and are interconnected. I enable teams to transform the underlying systems that perpetuate inequalities and weaken ecosystems. Awarded the Government of Canada’s Governor General’s Gold Medal for applied research, I’ve also raised my voice to advocate for equity, conservation and decolonization with the Canadian Government, UN agencies and the private sector. At my core I’m a partnership broker. At Birds Canada I lead the strategic design and roll-out of international conservation programs.

My passion for nature, conservation, and birds began while growing up in rural Vermont. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to study Leach’s Storm-Petrels on Kent Island, NB and became hooked on bird research/work. Over the course of field technician jobs on Canada Jays, Common Loons, Savannah Sparrows, Island Scrub-Jays, followed by a Master’s degree at the University of Windsor on Thick-billed Murres in Nunavut and northern Quebec, I gained experience and passion for bird conservation, and for birding all the time. I started with Birds Canada in 2018 and worked for three years in British Columbia coordinating Citizen Science programs, outreach events, and research projects. I moved to New Brunswick to coordinate the Atlantic Aerial Insectivore Conservation Program and Maritimes Marsh Monitoring Program for two years. I continue to live in New Brunswick and am now focused on the conservation of Boreal and Arctic birds and habitats as the Science in the North Project Manager. I really enjoy working for Birds Canada where I share my enthusiasm for birds and conservation with incredible volunteers, partners, and staff.

Jody is an avid birder and naturalist who enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for the natural world. He has been birding and banding since his teens, when he began volunteering at Long Point Bird Observatory (LPBO) in Southern Ontario. He is now the Director of Communications at Birds Canada where he manages the organization’s public relations and media, is the co-editor of BirdWatch Canada Magazine, producer of the Warblers Podcast and a coordinator of eBird Canada.

Over the years Jody has coordinated a variety of different bird-related projects including the Southern Ontario Bald Eagle Monitoring Program, the Ontario Nocturnal Owl Survey, Birds Canada’s Youth Education Program, and the Southern Ontario Forest Birds at Risk Program.

Jody regularly speaks about birds and conservation to audiences across Canada and has written numerous articles on birds, birding and connecting with nature. He is the monthly birding columnist for CBC Radio’s Daybreak Alberta, has appeared on CBC’s Rick Mercer Report, presented at Ideacity, was a featured bird expert on Season 2 of the Love Nature Television series ‘Battle of the Alphas’ and is a regular guest, and occasional guest host, on the American Birding Association podcast.

In addition to his 20+ years at Birds Canada, he has been leading birding tours with Eagle-Eye Tours since 2008.

519-586-3531 ext. 197

Some of my fondest birding memories come from early days spent Christmas Bird Counting around my hometown of Calgary, Alberta. Those early Christmas Bird Count (CBC) experiences continued later as I moved around British Columbia and Ontario. In fact, the CBC is such an infectious tradition, that it’s part of the reason I got into birds in the first place. Sure, CBCs are fun, but they are also a valuable tool. Counts conducted by Citizen Scientists contribute to a 120-year-old data set, and results are used to monitor trends in population sizes of birds, which can indicate overall environmental health. The perennial devotion of thousands of CBC volunteers, who brave often unforgiving conditions, is truly inspirational, and is the reason I’m certain that birds and the natural world are important to Canadians.

519-586-3531 ext. 198

My childhood fascination with dinosaurs eventually evolved into a love of the dinosaurs that surround us today: birds! I completed my Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology at Carleton University, where I developed an interest in science communication and the important role it plays in connecting people with research and conservation. After graduating, I pursued communications roles with environmental and sustainability organizations, combining my scientific background with engaging audiences. Having followed Birds Canada's work for many years, I am thrilled to bring my experience and passion to the organization as a Bilingual Communications Coordinator, helping share stories that inspire people to appreciate, understand, and conserve birds.

Please Note: Olivia Carvalho is currently on parental leave and will return in January 2028.

During her absence, Kris Cu is the primary contact for Project FeederWatch, the Great Backyard Bird Count, and Gardening for Birds. Please connect with Kris for any questions related to these programs.

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.

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.

At my heart, I’m a plover myself, gravitating to beaches and sunshine even in my time off. After university, I landed an internship in South Africa researching and protecting the White-Fronted Plover. I was hooked. Upon returning to my home province of Saskatchewan, I found summer work with Piping Plovers along the shores of Lake Diefenbaker, and now I coordinate the Ontario Piping Plover Conservation Program. Additionally, I am thrilled to host The Warblers, an award-winning podcast, for Birds Canada, where I work with a fantastic team to bring stories of birds and bird conservation to listeners across the country.
519-586-3531 ext. 128

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.

While I’ve worked in fundraising, supporting various organizations and causes for several years, I’ve always had the greatest passion for birds, wildlife and the environment. I was raised to have a deep respect and love for the natural world. I’m an avid camper, hiker, paddler and general lover of the outdoors. My fondest memories are bird outings with my parents and grandparents. I’m thrilled to contribute to the invaluable work done by Birds Canada in conserving wild birds of Canada so that future generations can experience the joy of birding.

519-586-3531 ext. 174

519-586-3531 ext. 121

I’ve had a deep love of wildlife and natural spaces all my life. Protecting our ecosystems is so important for both people and animals. I’m grateful to be able to marry my professional experience in finance with my personal passion for conservation at Birds Canada. I’m proud to be helping support the amazing work that takes place here.

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.

519-586-3531 ext. 122

The eerie shriek of a Barn Owl sparked my lifelong commitment to conservation. What began as a grassroots nest box project in my Vancouver Island hometown led me to pursue a Master’s in Resource and Environmental Management at Simon Fraser University, where I explored the ecological and socio-political dimensions of conservation challenges. I then spent six years with the Canadian Wildlife Service advancing habitat stewardship, migratory bird conservation, and species at risk recovery across British Columbia—administering federal funding for major initiatives and guiding multi-stakeholder collaboration using the Conservation Standards. Today, through the Conserva Aves Initiative, I apply this experience at a hemispheric scale: strengthening conservation capacity across Latin America and the Caribbean, supporting community-led efforts to protect critical bird habitats, and promoting gender equality and Indigenous and Afrodescendant leadership. From local to international, I believe conservation success is realized when we invest in people, partnerships, and place-based solutions.

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!
519-586-3531 ext. 112

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! 

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!

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.

I am a seasoned international grants, finance, and compliance leader with more than three decades of experience supporting complex, multi-country programs across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. My career has centred on advancing gender equality, human rights, food security, and climate justice through strong, trust-based partnerships with grassroots organizations, women’s rights groups, and local civil society. I have managed large-scale portfolios funded by Global Affairs Canada and major Canadian foundations, bringing deep expertise in budgeting, compliance, risk management, and partner capacity strengthening. I lead with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to creating safe, collaborative spaces where teams and partners can thrive. I am excited to bring my experience to Birds Canada and to contribute to strengthening the systems that help protect birds and the habitats we all depend on.

I’m passionate about collaboration and supporting teams to make a positive impact. My background in finance, accounting, and auditing spans both the private and international development sectors, giving me the opportunity to work with diverse teams across Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for how thoughtful financial practices can strengthen organizations and empower the people behind them. I enjoy bringing structure, transparency, and care to my work, helping teams make the most of their resources to create meaningful and lasting change in communities. I’m proud to contribute my experience to Birds Canada’s mission of conserving wild birds and their habitats.

One of my first field jobs was surveying Cerulean Warblers at the Queen’s University Biological Station. This experience piqued my interest in birds, specifically Species at Risk, and I haven’t looked back since. After receiving a Master of Science in Biology studying habitat loss in Eastern Whip-poor-wills, I began working at Birds Canada in 2016 on swifts and swallows. Now, as the Manager of Institutional Giving I support a range of Birds Canada’s important work to conserve birds. I am inspired by the talented and dedicated Birds Canada staff and supporters and do this work, because birds need our help more than ever.
519-586-3531

Since graduating from the Sauder School of Business I have focused on bringing tailored financial and operational support to organisations and projects across the public and non-profit sector.  I have extensive experience supporting stakeholders with statutory funding requirements, financial reporting practices and audit compliance and have worked on wide-ranging multi-country projects across Latin America and the Caribbean. At Birds Canada I support oversight, compliance and partner capacity building for the Global Affairs Canada Conserva Aves project. I enjoy bringing collaborative, practical support to partners that helps put grant funds into action and strengthens the long-term sustainability of on the ground conservation work. 

As a seasoned CPA and finance manager at Birds Canada, Maria brings a keen eye for detail and a passion for numbers to the team. When not crunching financials, Maria can be found exploring the great outdoors, hiking, and camping amidst nature's splendour. This love for the natural world fuels Maria's commitment to supporting Birds Canada's mission to conserve and protect bird populations. With a unique blend of financial expertise and environmental enthusiasm, Maria is dedicated to ensuring the organization's resources are managed effectively, allowing it to soar to new heights in its conservation efforts. 

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.

I love the Long Point area! I’ve always enjoyed watching hundreds of birds that fly up into the trees that at a distance looks many dots all lined up. Watching and waiting. Then suddenly a loud flapping sound is heard as they all leave their perch forming a cloud overhead. I don’t know how they don’t fly into one another. It truly is a spectacular sight! As part of the finance team I am proud to work for such a great organization that makes so many positive contributions to Canada and around the world!

I've always felt a deep connection to the natural world, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to put my operational experience to work in support of my feathered friends. I believe in peaceful coexistence with nature and in our collective responsibility to protect those who cannot advocate for themselves. It's especially meaningful to be part of a community of people who share these values and are united by a genuine desire to make the world a kinder place for birds.