Volunteer Spotlight

Autumn Pierce

 
How long have you been @ CWC?
I’ve been volunteering in the clinic since fall of 2015, and started volunteering with the Raptor Education Program a year later.

What shift(s) are you on?
I’ve been on Saturday mornings since the beginning! And I come in a couple other days of the week to work with the raptors as well.

Do you have a field of study (past or present)?
I’m currently pursuing a degree in Zoology, and I have a minor in chemistry. I should be graduating this spring!

Are you employed outside of your CWC volunteer position?
Yes, I work on campus at Oregon State as well.

What is your favorite part about volunteering at CWC?
I don’t think I have just one! I love my shift mates. I love the feeling of a bird trusting you enough to fly to your glove. I love seeing the transformation that happens as an animal goes from being in not-so-good shape to feisty and ready to go back to the wild. I love that you never really know what kind of a shift you’re about to walk in to. Always an adventure at CWC!

Do you have a favorite or most memorable patient (past or present)?
Any time an eagle comes in, it’s always special. The first time I held an eagle was actually on my birthday a couple years ago, and I remember just being amazed at how incredibly strong this juvenile was, and how much of a treat it was for me to be able to help!

As far as the ed birds go, I love each one of them individually, they all have such unique, interesting personalities! But if I had to pick one, I think Runa the Rough legged hawk holds a special place in my heart because she’s a lot like me. We can both be stubborn, yet eager to learn. We’re both pretty goofy, too.

What is something that your shift may not know about you?
I feel like my shift knows me pretty well, but if I had to say something I’d say I’m probably one of the pickiest eaters on earth!

What book is currently on your nightstand?
Spillover: Animal infections and the next human pandemic by David Quammen. I’m reading it for a disease ecology class I’m taking. Really interesting stuff!

What music is in your car right now?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles lately.

Where are you from?
San Diego, California

 
Volunteer Autumn Pierce with Dea, a Red-tailed Hawk

 
Autumn with Morgan, a Sparred Owl
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Contact info@chintiminiwildlife.org or 541-230-1220.