Conservation Zoologist Kylie Lawson will be working with manatees at our Zoo’s upcoming manatee rehabilitation center.

Today, we’re celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science by sharing the experiences and insights from some of the amazing women in science at our Zoo. Read on to learn more about how these women and girls are using their degrees to make a positive impact on the environment and animals around them. To read all of our features, visit this page.

Let’s meet Kylie Lawson, a conservation zoologist at our Zoo.

What is your official title, and how long have you been at the Zoo?

I’m a conservation zoologist, and I’ve been here since September 2023.

What’s your educational background?

I have a four-year degree (Bachelor of Science) in biology with minors in captive wildlife and psychology from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I did several internships in the field including at Marineland Dolphin Adventure, Miami Seaquarium, and FWC’s Manatee Rescue and Research team (to which I had a full-time position for about 2.5 years before coming to the Zoo).

Why did you pursue your field?

I have always had a passion for animals and helping them. Animal husbandry and conservation was the path I decided would be best for me in order to make a difference in their lives.

What are some challenges about your work?

There is a lot of trial and error in conservation work to determine what needs have to be met and how the species can be successful. In other words, you’re not going to get it right 100% of the time. There will be losses both in the field and in conservation facilities, but the wins are even greater.

Kylie adores working with our endangered Florida grasshopper sparrows!

Who motivated you in pursuing your field?

My grandfather Don played a role in me pursuing my career field. He had such a huge heart for animals, and that really rubbed off on me. He also had a doctorate in science, so we shared a passion for science as well. He was always motivating me to continue to pursue my dreams in this field, even when it was difficult. Knowing I always had his support, as well as the amazing support from my parents, kept me going. I also had great professors and mentors in college that taught me so much and prepared me well for this field.

What advice would you offer young girls pursuing a career in science?

Never give up. You will get a lot more “nos” than you will “yeses”, but it’s important to get up and keep trying. Keep seeking after opportunities for yourself to continue learning, gaining experience and making connections. Who you know is just as important as what you know. As a woman, know that anything you do in the science field is making a difference. You can do this. You got this. We (all women in science) support you in this.

What’s the most fulfilling part of your job?

Being able to release animals back into their native range, whether they’ve been born under our breeding program or come to us for rehabilitation. That is the ultimate goal (to increase natural populations) and the most fulfilling reward.

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.