A native of San Francisco, I spent my formative years in an English boarding school, where, after being influenced by “Tarka,” and “Ring of Bright Water,” I occupied my free time roaming the surrounding countryside in search of otters.

I graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in (Marine) Biology. My background includes teaching and conducting research at the Catalina Island Marine Institute; Clinic Director of at the Wildlife Center (it later became WildCare); and post-graduate work at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and Oxford University.

Upon learning there was a need for volunteers with River Otter Ecology Project, I saw a chance to learn about the North American River Otter; not only to help chart the return of another otter species, but also, hopefully, help to prevent a recurrence of what I had observed all those years ago.

As a volunteer, I work in the field, monitoring cameras, collecting specimens, and documenting River Otter presence. I also maintain a research article database, offer presentations to schools and interested organizations, and head up our Volunteer Committee. Travel and photography are both passions, and I share ROEP’s information with international otter groups whenever the opportunity arises.

I’m a member of the IUCN Otter Specialist Group, as well as the Otter Welfare Advisory Committee, an international group supporting best practices for river otter welfare both in the wild and in captivity.

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