Zooniverse and Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge

Authors

• Phin Ponce, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Andrew Pineda, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Elena Oberst, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Alaiya Braggs, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Oscar Diaz-Garcia, University of Central FloridaFollow

Streaming Media

Files

Course Code

LDR 2002

Course Number

0W60

Faculty/Instructor

Denise Lowe

Faculty/Instructor Email

Denise.Lowe@ucf.edu

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

Our group contributed to marine research through Zooniverse by reviewing underwater and aerial videos for the Dolphin Spotting project. We marked when dolphins appeared and described their behavior and surroundings, helping researchers link actions to sound patterns. We also assisted with Shark Spy by identifying shark species and counting individuals in underwater images. These volunteer observations support studies on species diversity, movement, and coastal population trends. Our volunteers at Back to Nature share animal caretaking shifts 8+ hours a week. The purpose of the organization is to rehabilitate and advocate for Florida native wildlife. They carry this out through educational visits for locals, education ambassador residents, and hands-on wildlife caretaking. Each day animal caretaking volunteers are assigned a list of animals and side work tasks to complete by the end of their shift. That includes cleaning, preparing food, providing enrichment, and assisting with rehabilitation without consistent support.

This project can be viewed online at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOihe283V_8

Keywords

Zooniverse; Organization; Leadership

Recommended Citation

Ponce, Phin; Pineda, Andrew; Oberst, Elena; Braggs, Alaiya; and Diaz-Garcia, Oscar, "Zooniverse and Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge" (2026). High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2026. 82.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hip-2026spring/82