Field Guide to a Fellow

Author: Julie Walker​
​
Hi there Reader! This is Julie Walker newly inducted ( there isn't really an ceremony or anything like that but inducted sounded cool ) STRI-UF Marine Conservation Fellow! I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself, but since we are all nerds here... here is what my bio would look like if it was in field guide form. 

​Name: Julietia Walkerus 
Common Name: Julie Walker
Range: J. Walkerus is native to the Maryland, but has recently been introduced to Florida. J. Walker seems fairly well establish in its expanded range and eradication seems unlikely (fingers crossed)
Diet: J. Walkerus is a opportunist generalist feeder however, must forage for coffee daily for survival. J. Walkerus preferred diet includes mac and cheese, reese's, and Cheetos (not at the same time...)  
​Distinguishable markings: J. Walkerus can be identified by it's unusually short stature which is covered in a large number of small brown dots. Typical vocalizations included a low growling noise originating from the stomach/abdomen area that usually precedes a feeding episode. Similar to a rattlesnakes rattle this growl is a warning to stay back until the Walkerus is full. 
Habitat: J. Walkerus is most likely swimming in large water bodies, hiding in the mangroves, or napping on a couch somewhere
Life History:  J. Walkerus originated from a little town in Maryland where she spent most of her juvenile stage. During this time  J. Walkerus enjoyed being in and around the water, spending much of its time by the Chesapeake Bay.  During the metamorphosis phase Walkerus attended St. Mary's College of Maryland where she received a bachelor's in biology. Walkerus adult form migrated north to Annapolis where she spent 3 years working for the Chesapeake Bay Program, working on science and policy to protect the bay and it's waterways. After the end of her three year fellowship, Walkerus was invaded Gainesville, FL where she has taken up root at University of Florida. Walkerus current interests include studying the northern expansion of mangrove in Florida, and spending as much time at the beach as possible.