Audubon Hero Kristi DuBois Retires

Kristi DuBois, long-time Montana wildlife biologist, is retiring in December from Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) after over 30 years of service to our state’s native wildlife. Currently based out of Missoula as a nongame biologist, Kristi is involved in research and conservation of everything from bog lemmings to bats, salamanders to swifts, to eagles, and loons, and more. She recently began leading efforts to search for Black Swift and Rosy-Finch in the Bitterroot Mountains.

Kristi DuBois (right) receives Conservationist of the Year Award from former MT Audubon staff member Amy Cilimburg.

Kristi grew up near Madison Wisconsin, earned her B.S. degree from the University of Wisconsin, and her Masters in Fish and Wildlife Management from Montana State University. During her career, she worked for FWP, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and The Nature Conservancy.

Kristi has been an especially important partner for Montana Audubon, including receiving our 2013 Conservationist of the Year Award (pictured above) for “her dedication to improving our understanding of and conserving all Montana’s wildlife.”

Nesting Ferruginous Hawks at Kevin Rim. Photo by Kristi DuBois.

During her career, Kristi’s careful monitoring and records have paid off.  For example, back in the 1980s, she researched nesting birds of prey at Kevin Rim, one of Montana Audubon’s Important Bird Areas – locating over 45 Ferruginous Hawk nests.  She ensured all her data was entered into the Montana Natural Heritage Program’s database – which is not something everyone does. These data were extremely valuable as Montana Audubon negotiated placement of the Rim Rock wind facility in 2012.

Fortunately, for all of us at Audubon, Kristi is planning to stay active in the birding community, conducting volunteer surveys—and always taking her camera. In terms of birds, she says, “You can watch birds almost anytime and anywhere…The other great thing is that anyone can do it. You don’t have to be an expert or know everything in the field guides.” (From: July/August 2005 MT Outdoors)

Thank you very much, Kristi, for your incredible work. We are privileged to know you. And from all of us at Montana Audubon, congratulations on retirement and an amazing career!