In this episode of Florida Uncut, we’re joined by avian ecologist Mary Marine, who is part of a team leading recovery efforts for one of North America’s most endangered birds, the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow, in the Everglades Headwaters. 

Mary shares how she codified her passion for this “little brown bird” and went from seasonal technician to an instrumental part of the recovery efforts with Archbold Biological Station. We’ll also discuss what endangered species recovery actually looks like on the ground, and why working lands and ranchers are essential partners in conservation (and why you should buy Florida beef!). We talk about translocation work, collaboration across divides, and why the Everglades Headwaters is one of the most important landscapes in Florida’s future.

Despite the challenges the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow faces, Mary’s hope for the future is relentlessly grounded in science, people, and the long game of conservation.

And just to keep things interesting, when Mary isn’t matchmaking between endangered birds, she’s doing it for humans too as a certified wedding planner.

Topics include:

• Florida Grasshopper Sparrow recovery and fieldwork realities
• Translocation and reintroduction of endangered birds
• Ranching, working lands, and conservation collaboration
• Storytelling as a tool for long-term conservation success

Follow Mary on Instagram @_marymarine_

You can watch the award-winning documentary of the FGS The Little Brown Bird for free here: http://thelittlebrownbird.film/

Check out Jeff Corwin’s episode of Wildlife Nation featuring Mary and the FGS here.