You, Me, and Nature

This program shares information on urban wildlife in Central Iowa and provides tips on coexisting with urban wildlife. It covers topics such as why wildlife lives in Des Moines, what animals you might see around the city, basic information on foxes, bobcats, and coyotes, why these species might be attracted to our neighborhoods, and how to keep yourself and your pets safe, and what to do if you see a coyote, fox, or bobcat. Audience engagement is focused primarily on answering basic questions as we get to know each other (our neighbors) and our wild neighbors who all live in this city. The goal of this program is to educate people on urban wildlife and how we can peacefully coexist.

Heartland Wilding is a joint initiative of Project Coyote, The Rewilding Institute, and The Half-Earth Project. The partnership between these three organizations helps to create a healthier and wilder Mississippi River Watershed.

Kelly is a Midwesterner with a passion for connecting people to nature. She has travelled and lived in many places, having worked as a field guide in South Africa, a human-manatee interactions researcher for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Florida, a National Park Service cowgirl in Montana, and a conservation educator in Ohio. Through all her adventures the Midwest maintained a special place in her heart, leading her to return to work as the Programs & Outreach Manager for Heartland Rewilding.