Dr Laura Young is a talented botanist and conservationist based in Blenheim. We talk about her love for ecology and how her career in conservation has evolved, from rediscovering a giant weevil (previously believed to be extinct) to studying wild Spaniards and kea. Laura has a five year old daughter, Cassie, who often comes with her on field trips. She shares some wonderful tips on balancing field work and outdoor time with being a mum. 

This episode is sponsored by Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand

Podcast music: Wild and Free by Hope Social Club and other pieces by Evan Phillips

Episode links:

• ‘An Advocate for Kea’ - Profile on Wilderlife blog (by FMC)
• Conservation careers profile on Laura. This Google Doc was produced by the Department of Conservation LEOTC Aoraki education programme team as part of their ‘conservation pathways’ learning resource. This was produced with secondary school students in mind.
• Kea Database NZ - a citizen science initiative from the Kea Sightings project. You can share your reports of kea sightings.
• Kea Survey Tool. This project aims to measure spatial patterns in kea abundance, and changes in kea abundance over time.
• Kea Conservation Trust. Kea Conservation Trust works to preserve and protect these unique birds, both in their natural habitat in the wild and in captivity. Laura works part-time for the KCT as an Community Engagement Coordinator.
• KEA Kids News: Kea birds eating roof nails that can kill them. KEA Kids News is designed to get young New Zealanders aged 7 to 11 involved in current affairs.
• Arthur’s Pass Kea dying after eating lead nails - a 4 minute excerpt from Morning Report on Radio New Zealand.
• Kea makes flying visit to Marlborough. Stuff article written by Dr Laura Young