Private lands wildlife biologist to speak in Farmington

FARMINGTON— Western Maine Audubon is set to present “Memories of a Wildlife Biologist” by Ron Joseph.

The talk will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, in Thomas Auditorium, Preble Hall, at the University of Maine at Farmington, 173 High St.

The event is free and open to interested guests of all ages. For those not able to attend in person, it will also be available live via Zoom.

Ron Joseph with baby lynx. Paul Cyr photo

Joseph’s talk will mainly focus on wildlife and his role in protecting and conserving species as described in detail in his recent book, “Bald Eagles, Bear Cubs, and Hermit Bill: Memories of a Wildlife Biologist.” He will focus in particular on the most current threat facing Maine’s fish and wildlife: a warming state that will result in winners and losers, according to a news release from Will Jones, board member, Western Maine Audubon.

In 1978, Joseph began a career as a state and federal wildlife biologist, often with a focus on the restoration of endangered species. In 1990, he began working as a private lands wildlife biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helping landowners restore hayfields and wetlands for migratory birds. He played a pivotal role in restoring Maine’s bald eagle, peregrine falcon, and Canada lynx populations. He is now retired, but continues to speak, volunteer, and lead birding trips.

For more information and the Zoom link, visit western.maineaudubon.org the day of the presentation. The talk will be recorded and made available on the WMA website a few weeks after the presentation.