Maiken Winter

Dr. – Cornell University

Today’s Date: April 7, 2008

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

My first observation of a winter wren when I was about 10 years old, realizing that that loud song came from such a small bird.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?

Yes, and old chestnut tree in a park in Munich.

Now? The prairies in the Northern Great Plains

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is and why?

The European Robin. It has beautiful big black eyes, and sings very beautifully.

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

Climate change, combined with habitat loss - climate change combined with disease outbreaks in the future

5. If you could give one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

Realize that we are part of nature and are dependent upon it entirely.