A Fond Farewell from Waterbird Biologist Victoria Heyse

By Waterbird Lead Biologist Victoria Heyse

I first came to SFBBO in the Fall of 2014 to work as a Salt Pond Intern. I was familiar with waterbirds, but as a recent New England transplant, my only experience had been with east coast species. To say that I had a lot to learn those first couple months would have been an understatement, and not only that but I needed to learn fast as the winter migration of shorebirds & waterfowl would soon be in full swing. But after my first salt pond survey not only was I hooked ... ​​I was obsessed! I loved familiarizing myself with the diversity of the pond habitats and their corresponding waterbird niches. As my internship was ending, an opportunity arose for me to join the ...

SFBBO staff as a full time Waterbird Biologist and I didn’t hesitate to stick around and learn as much as I could. As I organized salt pond surveys for the next three years, I experienced the migration of birds to and from the bay. It’s a special feeling to have a pulse on those seasonal changes. It creates a feeling of connection to the natural world that is indescribable. ​

​It wasn’t just working on salt ponds where I felt that connection. Avian Disease Prevention boat surveys probably top my list of favorite job duties. Out of the seven million people that live in the bay area, I bet less than 0.05% have had the opportunity to experience a meandering south bay slough by boat. It is as breathtaking as it is special. Counting 50,000-plus gulls in a week is also special (and another favorite memory of mine), although I must admit, it takes your breath away in a different way (it doesn’t smell the best).  

​After four years (and some change) of incredible work at SFBBO, I am moving on to a job as a Park Interpreter with Santa Clara County Parks. Now more than ever, I feel pulled toward educating the next generation of scientists and helping to facilitate meaningful connections in nature. I'm honored to have been a part of such an awesome and passionate group of biologists, volunteers, and fellow bird nerds. It has been so inspirational to see all of the heart that everyone who is a part of SFBBO pours into the conservation of birds and habitats. I look forward to staying involved and up to date with everything SFBBO as a volunteer and member.

Victoria Heyse was SFBBO's Lead Waterbird Biologist. She is now a Park Interpreter with Santa Clara County Parks, where she will continue to impact birds as an SFBBO partner.