The opportunity to apply to the Duttenhaver Conservation Field Program was given to me through my high school. I had learned this program allowed students to participate in environmental conservation studies around the world, and in 2024 they were sending students to Brazil. The scientific question being studied: Are animals reinhabiting reforested areas? When I was accepted to the program, I was in complete disbelief.

She and colleagues from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Smithsonian Zoo traveled to Ecuador’s Llanganates National Park in October 2022.

What is it like working in the field on the conservation projects that are so important for supporting endangered species? Journey with Conservation Director Dr. Owens through Argentina for his notes from the field on the sites, species, and friends he encountered during his most recent travel for giant otter conservation.