Jenna Curtis

My focus is on enhancing engagement and communication among eBird contributors, regional data editors, and our scientific partners. I work to develop resources to support and instruct eBirders and eBird reviewers alike; because an active, knowledgeable eBird community means more high-quality data for bird conservation! I look forward to collaborating with groups worldwide to promote eBird’s continued growth and diversification.

My career interests lie at the intersection of science, conservation, and public engagement. I strive to foster the same passion for birds that I feel every day, in others.

Education

Ph.D., Wildlife Science, Oregon State University
M.S., Wildlife Science, Oregon State University
B.A., Biology and Fine Art, George Washington University

Inspiration

My inspirations are the trailblazing female Ornithologists throughout history including – but not limited to – Margaret Morse Nice, Harriet Mann Miller, Anna Botsford Comstock, and Florence Page Jacques.

Spark Moment

My spark moment came when I was 11 years old. While home sick from school, I saw a flock of Dark-eyed Juncos pass through my backyard. To most, juncos are a drab, unremarkable species. To my 11-year-old self, they were the most strikingly beautiful birds I had ever seen. I just HAD to see them again. I convinced my dad to put up a bird feeder, then another, then a hummingbird feeder, then a suet cage, then a thistle sock… I was hooked! Though I have seen a number of perhaps more beautiful or fascinating birds since then, Dark-eyed Juncos will always have a very special place in my heart.