Women Scientists Lead Conservation Efforts in the Everglades

UF Croc Docs team tackles invasive species, protects native wildlife, and advances research in the Florida wetlands

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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At the University of Florida's Croc Docs Wildlife Research Lab, women make up half the team of scientists conducting critical conservation work in the Everglades. From capturing alligators and tracking pythons to managing invasive species and protecting fragile ecosystems, these researchers are redefining what women in science look like in the field. Their work spans from hands-on fieldwork to international projects, showcasing the full spectrum of modern conservation science.

Why it matters

Women make up less than 30% of scientists globally, highlighting persistent gender gaps in STEM fields. The UF Croc Docs program is a shining example of how women are leading the charge in conservation science, overcoming stereotypes and inspiring the next generation of researchers.

The details

The UF Croc Docs team conducts a variety of critical conservation work in the Everglades, including capturing and monitoring alligators, tracking invasive Burmese pythons, and managing other destructive invasive species. Researchers like Alexis Pupo and Bryna Daykin work through the night on airboat surveys, while Melissa Miller, Michelle Bassis, and others use radio telemetry, drones, and thermal cameras to locate and remove pythons. Other team members, such as Patricia Rodriguez-Gonzalez and Gabriella De La Fe, partner on night road surveys to document invasive snakes and frogs. The lab's work extends internationally, with Venetia Briggs-Gonzalez leading projects on crocodiles and turtles in Belize.

  • The UF Croc Docs team conducts their fieldwork primarily at night and in the early morning hours.
  • February 11th is International Women and Girls in Science Day, when the team's work is being highlighted.

The players

Alexis Pupo

A South Florida native and member of the UF Croc Docs team, conducting hands-on fieldwork to protect native wildlife and manage invasive species in the Everglades.

Bryna Daykin

The crew leader for the UF Croc Docs team, driving the airboat during nighttime alligator capture surveys.

Melissa Miller

A wildlife ecologist and the principal investigator leading the UF Croc Docs' efforts to reduce Burmese python populations in the Everglades.

Michelle Bassis

A biologist on the UF Croc Docs team, conducting comprehensive surveys of mammals, birds, and invasive pythons in the Everglades.

Venetia Briggs-Gonzalez

A wildlife ecologist leading international conservation projects on crocodiles, wildcats, and the endangered Central American river turtle in Belize.

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What they’re saying

“I can't imagine a more fulfilling way to spend my time than helping to conserve the environment and the fauna that taught me so much growing up. The work I'm doing now allows me to be more involved than I ever thought possible, and I don't think I'd believe you if you told me in high school that I'd be working on conservation of native crocodilians and management of invasives.”

— Alexis Pupo

“Women have overcome countless hurdles over the years to even allow me to get to this position, and that is truly awe inspiring and humbling to reflect on — how decades ago my walk down this path may not have been as easy as a scientist.”

— Melissa Miller

“Working alongside professional women scientists gave me confidence and motivation to keep moving forward. They've shown me that anything is possible.”

— Gabriella De La Fe, Croc Doc intern

What’s next

The UF Croc Docs team will continue their critical conservation work in the Everglades, expanding their research and monitoring efforts to protect native wildlife and manage invasive species. They will also continue to inspire the next generation of women in science through their mentorship and outreach.

The takeaway

The UF Croc Docs program demonstrates how women are leading the charge in conservation science, overcoming gender stereotypes and making significant contributions to protecting fragile ecosystems like the Everglades. Their work serves as a powerful example of the important role women play in shaping the future of environmental conservation.