During the third episode of the Conservation Cast, Maya had the incredible opportunity to speak with Ellie Armstrong, a 4th Year PhD candidate at Stanford University. Armstrong's research involves applying genetic tools to answer conservation questions in particular, 1) can genetic testing be used to collect in-situ samples to remove or minimize animal stress?, 2) how can the technology be used to track and combat the illegal animal trade? and 3) how do changes in big cat dispersal patterns affect the genomic landscapes of threatened and endangered cat species?. The duo discussed Ellie's career, the effect illegal poaching and cat trading have on population numbers and some of her career highlights including being the first scientist to sequence a full lion genome.

Exotic Feline Rescue Center

Maya’s community raised $1571 for the Exotic Feline Rescue Center, one of the largest rescue centers in the United States providing forever homes for exotic cats that have been abused, abandoned or rescued.