What would you do if you were responsible for interpreting nature to thousands of people in a state you had just moved to? That’s the situation Angelina Stancampiano found herself in when she moved to Wyoming in 2021 to work as an interpretive ranger for Wyoming State Parks. Suddenly, she needed to be an authoritative source of information for the masses of park visitors.

Angelina came from a strong background in biology and interpretation, but she needed to learn more about Wyoming specifically. So she applied to the Wyoming Naturalist Program to learn from the state’s experts and connect to the naturalist community.

While there are many parts to her job, one stands out to her: translating science to visitors. By doing so, she hopes to give them information they can apply wherever they go.

We spoke with Angelina at Wyoming BioBlitz 2023, where she led a night hike. What’s with the glowing mouse on her head? Good question. During the hike, Angelina demonstrated a technique biologists use to track nocturnal mammals. After trapping one, they coat it in a powder that glows under ultraviolet light. When they release the mammal, they can use an ultraviolet flashlight to see where it goes. For reasons unknown, the mouse Angelina released decided to climb on her head. 

Participating in programs like the Wyoming Naturalist program and teaching others about nature are just two ways you can get involved in conservation. To hear about other opportunities, be sure to sign up for our emails!