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The New York Times: Scientists Begin Testing Bird Flu Vaccine in Seals

In response to the increasing threat of bird flu, marine mammal researchers are hoping to provide a life-saving, preventative vaccine for endangered Hawaiian monk seals. 

Learn how researchers at The Marine Mammal Center are studying the bird flu vaccine in elephant seals as a similar species, as well as our next steps to protect Hawaiian monk seals.

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Northern elephant seal
Heather Stoker

Heather Stoker

Animal Care Assistant, Hawaiʽi

Heather first joined The Marine Mammal Center as a volunteer in 2018 and moved to a staff position three years later supporting the care and rehabilitation of Hawaiian monk seals at Ke Kai Ola, the Center’s hospital and visitor center in Kona, Hawaiʻi, dedicated to this endangered species.

In her role as Animal Care Specialist, Heather works with our Hawaiian monk seal patients, feeding, weighing, transporting and providing general care, and supervises a team of volunteers assisting with these duties. She also performs ongoing behavioral observations, lab work and water-quality testing, and assists the veterinary team in exams and other areas of critical care.

Prior to joining the Center, Heather worked at a number of veterinary clinics and boarding facilities supporting the care of dogs, cats and exotic animals. She also spent two decades working with horses at large barns and equestrian centers.

Heather enjoys running, hiking, hanging out on the beach or just being home with her husband and animals.

 

Areas of Expertise

  • Hawaiian Monk Seal Husbandry
  • Volunteer Management
  • Domestic Animal Care and Handling
  • Horse Husbandry and Equestrian Management
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