2025 Conservation Intern Mid-Year Updates–Chelsea Padilla

Chelsea Padilla

Mid-Year reflection

It has been almost 5 months since I was invited to be a part of the amazing Field Conservation team at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance. When I received the call, I said yes immediately and told anyone who might possibly care. Since accepting this incredible offer, I have been able to experience a plethora of new environments and information. I started off the internship by learning about camera traps and how to properly QA QC data. These are both skills that will be applicable throughout my career and were fun to do. Then, I had the privilege of attending a complete bison transfer in which many Bison were vaccinated, tagged, and then shortly after sent to various places with other herds. It was an emotional and once in a lifetime opportunity. This was just the beginning for us

We have spent many days out in the field now.  Daniels park is officially one of the most beautiful, complex, and essential environments I’ve ever been able to come across. It is filled with different types of grasses, shrubs, and various other plants. There is an awesome bison herd that hangs nearby a prairie dog colony quite often. Many incredible birds and bugs that I had never seen. At Genesee park, though we don’t spend too much time up there, we get to learn about a unique place filled with trees and another lovely bison herd. Being a part of the grasslands team has truly educated me on the importance of ecosystems like these and how crucial bison are to the region.

This internship has officially rooted me in my career path even more than before. I have found an abundance of curiosity and passion in Daniels Park and many other grasslands. I want to continue learning about these environments for as long as I can. I am incredibly thankful to be selected to be a part of this team and will continue to prove my dedication to conservation efforts. Thank you Denver Mountain Parks Foundation and the Denver Zoo!