Please welcome the newest Coastal Conservation Technician to join us in High Island this season – Brooke Adam! Brooke is originally from Southern Maine where she was introduced to the world of conservation through an internship with Maine Audubon. There, she worked on a restoration project to protect the Common Loon. After that, she made her way to Florida and has spent the last two field seasons working with the Critically Endangered Florida Grasshopper Sparrow. Her conservation journey has now brought her to High Island, Texas and she is very excited to experience both fall and spring migration on the coast.
1. What is your favorite bird?
It’s always hard to pick a favorite bird, but the Swallow-tailed Kite is one bird that never ceases to make me stop and look up in awe. A really close competitor for my favorite bird is the Common Nighthawk; I was lucky to see dozens of nighthawks displaying and chasing each other every morning on the Florida dry prairie this summer!
2. What are some of your hobbies?
Outside of work, I am an avid birder and bird photographer. I enjoy the process of photography more than the resulting photos. There is nothing like getting to know the individual birds and seeing little intimate moments, such as a Royal Tern pair reaffirming their bond with a dance, or a Wilson’s Plover bathing in a tidal pool.
3. What did you want to be when you were young?
I wanted nothing more than to be a Paleontologist after I watched Jurassic Park when I was little. I think younger me would be overjoyed to know I did end up working with dinosaurs, just the ones that are still around today!
4. What are you most excited about in your new role?
Spring Migration of course! But aside from that, I’m excited to explore Texas for the first time, and to help maintain the High Island Sanctuaries for the birds and visitors. I have high hopes to meet incredible people and see amazing birds!
