Doris J. Waud

Rush-Henrietta Central School District

July 23, 2009

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

Living in Chiapas, Mexico in 2004-2005 in the tropics taught me to respect all nature, especially tarantulas! I must say that birdwatching has greatly impacted my life in many ways.

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

During my childhood I had more freedom to go off and explore for a day than children do in today's organized world, so I would go to a creek or ride my bike around. Now I love coastal Chiapas, Mexico and parks for camping in the US. I have spent over a year sleeping in a tent when I add up our many camping trips. I also love Pt. Pelee, Ontario for birding in spring.

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

Birds fascinate me, especially the black-capped chickadee. In Chiapas I love the giant wren and the motmots.

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?

Humans need to reduce our population; we have no natural predators. Our economic systems tell us to build and grow, often with little regard for what is happening to the natural world. We need to enjoy and respect the natural world around us and find happiness in relationships instead of acquiring so many things. There are people who think in this way, but it feels like the minority.

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

Have a sense of wonder, as Rachel Carson wisely said, to treasure the earth and its various forms of life. Respect nature; remember the passenger pigeon that once was abundant and is now extinct.

Do you have any comments or other information that you would like to share relating to this project?

Please reach the youth of this country and the world; they play video and computer games instead of going outside. In Chiapas, where my husband and I return each summer to volunteer at the Pacific coast, kids know their environment and the names of the local birds. They do not have the "resources" we have in first world countries but are happy.