Emily Siegel

What did you study? We’d love to learn about your academic path.

After graduating from UNC Chapel Hill, I spent a season at Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve conducting breeding bird surveys for a long-term monitoring project. Noticing declines in several species, I realized that I wanted to understand more than just the fieldwork, but also how policy, social science, and strategy all fit together in conservation. This led me to pursue a Master’s at Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment, where I learned how to bridge research and management. From there, stepping into my role at Georgetown has been a place where I’ve been able to keep growing and working on the issues that first got me excited about conservation.

Could you share a moment in your work that made you feel proud or taught you something meaningful?

Conducting elephant research in Kafue National Park, Zambia, taught me the meaning behind holistic, collaborative conservation management. I learned that it’s not enough to throw money or policies at issues, but we must instead work alongside communities to develop action plans for the species that affect their native ecosystems and livelihoods. There is always more knowledge to learn, and we must look towards local partnerships to guide the way in species conservation.

What gives you hope for the future of bird conservation?

I’m given hope by the number of young people who want to learn more about birds, whether through scientific research or casual birding. With more people being aware of the effects humans have on our planet, I think we will see more behavioral change at societal scales.

What is something unique or fascinating you’ve learn about the species you work with – something that always makes you smile or sparks curiosity in others?

Many birds and elephants have a symbiotic relationship – birds often groom elephants in the process of removing small parasites or ticks while also gaining a food source (and a free ride!). I like to think that this shows humans we can come together for a common good, no matter how big our differences may be

Is there someone whose work has inspired you — a partner or colleague?

My inspiration is my grad school advisor, Dr. Nicolette Cagle. She is not only a well-respected scientist and wildlife conservationist, but is also an empathetic, passionate, and caring educator who wants to see others succeed in the field as well. She has plenty of bird knowledge (especially around bird window collisions)