If you’ve ever watched a jellyfish drifting through the water, you know there is something mesmerizing about it. They look delicate and almost otherworldly, like living glass floating in the ocean. But as simple as they seem, jellyfish are some of the most fascinating and important creatures in the sea. Jellyfish have been around for more than 500 million years. Think about that. They were pulsing through oceans long before the dinosaurs walked the Earth. Somehow, they’ve sur

You’d never see it from the waters surface, but what modern trawling does to our oceans is horrifying. A modern industrial bottom-trawler drags a massive net—often held open by a heavy chain or metal beam—across the seafloor. Everything in its path is smashed, scraped, and forced into the net behind it. Coral, sponges, seagrass meadows, and countless other lifeforms are destroyed in minutes, leaving behind an underwater wasteland. Bycatch from bottom trawling These trawlers a

Hidden beneath the surface of Mexico’s Gulf of California swims a creature so rare, many people don’t even know it exists. The vaquita, a small porpoise with dark eyes, a gentle face, and a shy demeanor, is the most endangered marine mammal on Earth.

As another year rolls in, I’ve been thinking about how I want to move through the next twelve months - slower, more intentionally, and more connected to the world around me. When I started Wandering Wave, it was my way of giving back to nature and hopefully inspiring others to do the same. The turning of the year always feels like a good time to pause, look around, and ask: how can I live in better rhythm with the Earth? Slowing down does not always come easily for me. I tend

The holidays are a season of generosity, excitement, and big emotions. For many people, the idea of a puppy under the tree feels like the ultimate expression of love. But dogs and cats are not the only animals affected by holiday gift giving. Each year, countless fish, reptiles, turtles, guinea pigs, and other small animals are purchased as Christmas presents. These animals are often marketed as “easy” or “low maintenance,” but the reality is very different. While pets can br

The holidays are a time for gratitude, connection, and generosity, a season when I find myself reflecting not just on family and friends, but also on the natural world that sustains us. For me, the beauty of the season isn’t just in twinkling lights or cozy fires; it’s in the quiet moments noticing the wildlife around me, the birds flitting between bare trees, the crunch of snow underfoot, or the tracks left behind by animals in the frost. I also think about the horses I work

In the fall of 2022, I spent two weeks in Kenya on a study abroad trip through my university, exploring the intersection of social work, environmental conservation, and One Health - the understanding that human, animal, and ecosystem health are deeply interconnected.

Every year on December 4th , the world comes together to celebrate World Wildlife Conservation Day - a day to recognize the importance of protecting wildlife and the habitats they depend on. Conservation isn’t just about saving animals; it’s about maintaining the balance of ecosystems that support life, including ours. The One Health Connection: Humans, Animals, and the Environment Healthy wildlife populations maintain ecosystems that provide clean air, water, fertile soil,

For centuries, the hawksbill sea turtle has been prized for its radiant, marbled shell, turned into jewelry, combs, and ornaments sold in tourist markets around the world. But behind that beauty lies one of the most tragic stories in marine conservation.

Baby Gator named Smaug On November 9th, my husband and I made a slightly unconventional honeymoon stop at Colorado Gators Reptile Park in Mosca, Colorado. Arriving right at opening, we had the place to ourselves which made the experience feel intimate and special. The quiet morning light, the still ponds, and the chance to wander among the animals created a sense of calm that set the perfect tone for learning and exploration. The park isn’t about polished exhibits or picture-

Did you know corals are animals? Corals are sessile, which means they are permanently attached to the ocean floor and cannot move, similar to the plants we see on land. But unlike plants, corals are actually living animals!

Today is One Health Day, a day to celebrate and raise awareness about how the health of humans, animals, and the environment are all connected.

The green sea turtle is no longer considered endangered! Thanks to decades of conservation work, their population has grown 28 percent! This victory is a reminder that conservation works but also that our efforts must continue to protect all sea turtle species.

I’ve always loved animals, but my path to conservation led me through social work and ecological justice. Wandering Wave is my space to explore how humans, animals, and the environment are connected—and to show that even small actions can make a big difference. Join me on this journey of discovery and impact.