Community Enagagement and Capacity Development

The Ridgway's Hawk project team is composed almost entirely of local biologists. Our team of men and women are working for the project in the communities they were born in and grew up in. They receive regular training and in-the-field experience in nest searching, data collection, tree climbing, bird handling and banding, environmental education techniques, and leadership skills. They also are trained in the use of GPS, computers, and data entry. 

Since we are a small team, our aim is to train teachers and other environmental educators to help spread the word about the Ridgway's Hawks, raptors, and their conservation. Workshops usually last 2 to 3 days and include hands-on learning activities, such as building a life-sized raptor out of recyclable material, competing in "Raptor Olympics" and putting on a play. Participants also have the opportunity to practice creating their own lessons and presenting them to the group. 

Part of our capacity development efforts includes providing opportunities for our local staff to participate in and present at local and international conferences. This is important for them to develop public-speaking skills, frame and write abstracts and presentations, and network with other biologists, educators, and conservationists.