Museum Outreach
One of the most gratifying things about working as a museum ornithologist is showing the public the invaluable resources we store and curate, as well as informing them of the incredible value they hold. One of my favorite ways to do this is via museum open houses and similar events, where I can make displays to simultaneously show off specimens and discuss important research they are used for. I have acted as a major organizer for two such open houses, and have designed exhibits on geographic variation in the Solomon Islands (above), avian melanism, and morphological evolution of Sandhill Cranes.
Other Outreach
I try to engage in outreach both as a scientist and as a birder when possible. In one case, I got to highlight our work on morphological evolution of Sandhill Cranes in the local new. I have also written popular science articles for our department's BioBlog. Two I've written that focus on natural history anyone on campus can witness are one about hybrid Mallards in the campus duck pond and another about experiencing seasonal migration on campus. As a birder, I've acted as an expert for small interviews and art projects. I've also acted as a volunteer leader for many bird walks, where my roles can intersect and allow me to educate birders on the natural history and associated research behind birds we observe.