Alexis Cole
she/her
Environmental Technician - Program Coordinator
Nature Newfoundland and Labrador
Discipline
Conservation, Population Dynamics, Project Management, Public/Community Engagement
Regional Focus
Atlantic Canada
Years Active
0-2 years
Species Focus
Auks (Alcidae), Sea ducks and allies (Anatidae), Gulls and Terns (Laridae), Cormorants (Phalacrocoracidae), Petrels and Shearwaters (Procellariidae), Skuas and Jaegers (Stercorariidae), Gannets and Boobies (Sulidae), Storm-Petrels (Hydrobatidae & Oceanitidae)
Tell us about your work with seabirds.
Alexis coordinates the Waterbird Environmental Citizen Science Program with Nature Newfoundland and Labrador. Gathering baseline data on coastal bird activity along the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland to support oil spill preparedness and inform industrial development. She also works independently as a certified Seabird Observer, applying the Eastern Canada Seabirds at Sea (ECSAS) protocol to conduct offshore surveys from ships and stationary platforms. Her work involves quantifying seabird distribution and abundance, as well as tracking movements to define habitat use. This data helps identify key marine areas for protection and guide efforts to reduce emerging environmental threats.
What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a career as seabird scientists?
If you have a love for birds, let that passion fuel your career. For me, it's a deep connection to seabirds that fuels my work and embracing that passion has been invaluable. My advice to those early in their careers is to volunteer with local conservation groups whenever you can, and take every opportunity to learn and grow. Stay open to different career paths, you never know where they might lead. Most importantly, keep a positive outlook, even during challenges because resilience and optimism are just as important as knowledge and skills in this field.

Alexis Cole wearing a burgundy jacket, standing Infront of a large ice berg off the coat of Newfoundland.
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