March 8^th marks International Women’s Day, and what a perfect time to introduce and celebrate Aynsley Woods! Aynsley has been working as the Manitoba IBA program assistant over the winter months. Aynsley put together a little introduction post – keep reading to learn more about her!

Hi! My name is Aynsley Woods (she/her). I am the new program assistant for MB IBA. I am currently in my final year of my bachelor’s degree in Evolution and Biodiversity at the University of Manitoba. My focus is on the behaviour of migratory species. I would like to focus on shorebirds, as they tug at my heart strings, but I am also open to all other species and organisms including insects and fungi! My family owns a cottage in Nopiming Park, where I try to spend my free time when I’m not studying or working. I was very fortunate this past summer to work with the Fish and Wildlife Branch of the province, and survey many species including Western Grebes, Spotted Sandpipers, Trumpeter Swans, and Red-headed Woodpeckers. I worked closely with Tim Poole on Chimney Swift monitoring and was also involved in goose banding.  

I have been working very closely with the Program Coordinator, Marissa. I am very excited to be part of the MB IBA program, and to learn more about birds and conservation outreach programs regarding birds! This is a wonderful opportunity as I have a great love of birds and wildlife in general. I’ve always loved the idea of getting more people involved in conservation and being aware of the fascinating world around us!