Wild Canids of New York: Past, Present, and Future
Wild Canids of NY: Past, Present, and Future is a presentation on the natural history of wolves, coyote, and fox in our region. Join Erin and Karley from The Wolf Mountain Nature Center to learn about the value of these animals and what it is like to work with wild canids in a sanctuary setting.
~Erin Lord-Astles has worked in the animal care industry since 2013, first starting as a TWMNC Intern, moving on to an exotic animal handler, and then working zookeeper and sea lion trainer at The Utica Zoo. Erin has served as the Director for The Wolf Mountain Nature Center since 2021 and primarily provides support to Founder, Will Pryor, and the rest of the staff. Erin had served as an adjunct instructor for the FLCC Conservation Department since 2018 and currently adjuncts CON 113: Wildlife Field Techniques and CON 242: Field Study of Birds. Erin also has designed an animal care internship program for students with an interest in a career in animal care. She runs this internship through her 501(c)3 nonprofit Finger Lakes Wildlife Center, Inc. in partnership with FLCC SWAMP internship program, The Wolf Mountain Nature Center, and The Seneca Park Zoo.
~Karley Bush is an Alumni of the FLCC Conservation Department and has been working at The Wolf Mountain Nature Center since 2016. Karley started as an intern, but has since been promoted to Canid Caretaker, Volunteer & Intern Coordinator, and Events Coordinator. Karley also leads educational programs and tours for visitors, creates informational stations, co-manages the gift shop and admissions, has attended training workshops at Wolf Park in Indiana, and plays a crucial role as a wolf puppy parent and wild canid caretaker. When not at the center, Karley works a full-time job at a Veterinary Clinic and spends time with her own dogs.