Mountains, glaciers, wildfires. The North Cascades in Washington State are home to an incredible array of wildlife, including a species rarely seen in the continental United States: the Canadian Lynx.
In this episode, we’re joined by Carmen Vanbianchi, Co-Founder and Research Director of Home Range, a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the lynx and other wildlife in the Cascade Mountains of Washington state.Ê
Carmen shares her journey from studying lynx as a graduate student to co-founding her own nonprofit to protect this elusive cat and its habitat. We dive into the unique ecology of the Cascades, discussing how lynx are adapted to this environment and the threats they face from habitat loss, climate change, and increased recreation.
Carmen shares fascinating details about the lynx’s life history, behavior, and what makes this species distinct from other cats, namely bobcats. Carmen highlights Home Range’s multifaceted mission, from field research to community education initiatives aimed at fostering coexistence between humans and lynx.
We also explore the larger forces at play, like the recent surge in catastrophic wildfires and how these events impact lynx, bears, and other wildlife in the region. Carmen provides insights from Home Range’s field training program preparing the next generation of wildlife biologists.
Throughout our conversation, Carmen’s passion for conservation shines through as she shares the challenges of running a nonprofit, the joys of connecting with local communities, and what motivates her to keep fighting for this incredible species.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, conservationist, or simply someone who appreciates learning from inspiring individuals, IÕm sure youÕll enjoy this very in depth, sciency episode (with lots of laughs and stories, too).
Alright friends, please enjoy this conversation with Carmen.
The Home Range Wildlife Research Lynx and Wildfire Project is made possible with funding support from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and through a partnership with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). All capture and collaring activities are performed under USFWS permit #PER2937435.