WOMEN IN SEABIRD SCIENCE
Holli Holmes
she/her
Masters' student
University of
Montana
Discipline
Conservation, Genetics
Regional Focus
Western Montana; Northern Idaho
Years Active
3-5 years
Species Focus
Sea ducks and allies (Anatidae)
Tell us about your work with seabirds.
My work focuses on breeding populations of Harlequin Ducks (HADU) in Montana and Idaho. Long-term monitoring of breeding HADU in the region has documented population declines leading to concerns about population status in the region. Previous methods have primarily relied on direct, in-person observations and are highly variable owed to factors outside the observer's control. Thus, I am comparing detection probabilities of non-invasive survey methods to determine their efficacy in detecting HADU on streams. I am also working on building a predictive occupancy model of breeding HADU in the region to help non-game biologists update their current HADU monitoring program.
What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a career as seabird scientists?
My advice would be to be open to as many experiences as you can while you can. When I started working in Glacier National Park, the last thing I expected was to become immersed in the world of sea ducks. I've always been a mountain gal who is drawn to the ocean. But being open to different opportunities led me to this world where I get to have a taste of both the ocean and the amazing bird life that comes with it, and the mountains where some of our favorite species go to breed.
Holli wearing a pink sun shirt and waders standing in front of a river in Montana surrounded by conifer trees. Holli is wearing blue gloves holding a filter that she is going to use to collect environmental DNA to try and detect Harlequin Ducks.
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@holmesholli