We are fortunate to have many volunteers who have contributed significantly to our work.

Mary Ann Bogert

Northern Saw-whet Owl Lead Bander

Mary Ann Bogert is a Ph.D. candidate in Biological Sciences at Binghamton University, NY with a background in wildlife biology, animal behavior, avian ecology, and biology education. Her research interests include avian migration, behavioral ecology, and the physiological and environmental factors influencing wildlife populations.

In 2020, Mary began collaborating with Dr. Robert Smith on a research project investigating the migration ecology of Northern Saw-whet Owls at Lackawanna State Park. Building upon the owl banding efforts previously established by Dr. Smith and his wife, Beth, the project has grown into a long-term investigation of Northern Saw-whet Owl migration and biology. Since 2020, Mary has served as the project's lead owl bander, coordinating field activities, and introducing students and volunteers to avian field research.

Mary is especially committed to making scientific research accessible to students and community members. Through the Northern Saw-whet Owl project, she has introduced numerous students and volunteers to avian field research, bird banding, and the importance of long-term wildlife monitoring. She hopes that these experiences not only contribute to scientific understanding but also inspire curiosity, appreciation for wildlife, and future generations of scientists.

Mary earned her A.S. from Luzerne County Community College, PA and her B.S. from Keystone College, PA. 

Colin Florey

Volunteer Bird Bander

Colin Florey is a native of Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Pittsburgh. He is an active volunteer supporting avian research and conservation efforts throughout the year.

 Colin's involvement encompasses all aspects of bird banding operations, from maintaining and preparing research sites to assisting with daily field activities. His responsibilities include opening and closing mist nets, monitoring environmental conditions, safely extracting birds from nets, banding birds, and collecting and recording morphological measurements and other biological data essential to ongoing research.

 He participates in both songbird and Northern Saw-whet Owl banding projects and operates a secondary Northern Saw-whet Owl banding station, helping expand the reach and effectiveness of the organization's research efforts. Beyond direct fieldwork, Colin provides logistical and operational support to help ensure the success of the organization's various projects.

 With a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, Colin is passionate about wildlife conservation, avian research, and the role scientific study plays in understanding and protecting bird populations. He particularly values the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research while working alongside a community of individuals dedicated to conservation, education, and environmental stewardship.