Field Inclusive, Inc.

Field Inclusive Experience Reflection: Pauline Castro

“This program gives underrepresented students the opportunity to gain hands on skills that are applicable to their career.”

BY PAULINE CASTRO

This summer introduced me to the field of ornithology. Earlier in the year, I was introduced to the Cape Fear Bird Observatory (CFBO) when they collaborated with my university’s Wildlife society during the Great Backyard Bird Count. I soon discovered Field Inclusive along with this fellowship in collaboration with the Cape Fear Bird Observatory and the Wilson Ornithological Society. Diversity in the wildlife field is minimal, but Field Inclusive strives to give opportunities for underrepresented people in the field. This fellowship provides undergraduates with applicable experience in a safe and educational environment.

I worked alongside Evan Buckland and Chelsea Bullock from the CFBO to learn about Painted Bunting populations. Firstly, I had to learn foundational information about these birds. I was taught how to recognize Painted Buntings by their song. Recognizing them by song was important for point counts. This is a surveying method for bird populations. It works by observing a certain location for painted buntings by sight or sound. While conducting point counts, I also had to navigate sites with a GPS. This was completely new to me, but I picked it up quickly and it’s a skill that will be useful for any type of fieldwork.

Much of the summer was spent banding Painted Buntings. This involved putting metal bands and color bands onto the bird’s leg. This allows for future identification of each individual. Long term data can be collected from banding, such as migration patterns, age, sex, lifespan, and more. In order to band a bird, I first needed to learn how to hold a Bunting. After getting comfortable with handling the birds, I was able to successfully band and process the Buntings. Most of the banding was done at Fort Fisher and Masonboro Island. Although, I also worked with Chelsea at Carolina Beach State Park and Airlie Gardens during CFBO’s public banding demos. This was a great experience as I got to meet and interact with many different people. The demos allow people who are not involved in research to learn more about Painted Buntings. It introduces young people to the world of science and ornithology while also informing the public about current research initiatives. Environmental education is vital for conservation and local non-profits like CFBO.

Another valuable resource this fellowship provided was career development advising. Jessie Birckhead from Field Inclusive facilitated conversations around next steps in my academic and professional career. I found these check-ins very helpful as I was not sure what life after undergrad would look like for me. I found myself less intimidated by jobs and graduate school applications and more confident about what steps I needed to take next. Field inclusive had ensured that my experience had been safe, productive, and enriching. As I take my next steps in my career, I bring with me the knowledge of ornithology and the values of Field Inclusive. I want to use my education to help wildlife conservation efforts, while also promoting the voices of marginalized communities. I believe that in greater numbers we can progress toward solutions for our damaged environment. Ideas from the overlooked perspectives of these communities could reshape how we see the world and give insight into how we can change it.

When I began this fellowship, I did not know Painted Buntings even existed. I have learned a lot about these amazing birds and so much more. I had a great time studying them and learning from the scientists at CFBO and Field Inclusive. This program gives underrepresented students the opportunity to gain hands on skills that are applicable to their career. The program goes beyond research skills and connects students to people and organizations within the wildlife circle. The experience I had was nothing short of educational, inspiring, valuable, and fun.