About the OWCN Bloggers

Mike Ziccardi, DVM, MPVM, PhD
OWCN Director
Since 1996, Mike has acted as an oil spill response veterinarian and coordinator to more than 20 spills nationally and internationally. During spills, Mike often works either as the Deputy Wildlife Branch Director at the Command Post, as Care & Processing Group Supervisor or clinical veterinarian.

Christine Fiorello, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACZM
OWCN Response Veterinarian
Christine joined the OWCN in the spring of 2010. She has experience with a wide array of wildlife species in captive and free-ranging contexts. During spills, she acts as the lead clinical veterinarian.

Kyra Parker, MSc
Recovery & Transportation Specialist
Kyra joined the OWCN team in August of 2010, as the Recovery and Transportation Specialist. A marine and seabird biologist by training, she has worked in a variety of settings from California to Argentina. During oil spills Kyra assists in compiling teams that capture oiled wildlife and transport them to care facilities.

Emily Whitmer RVT
Wildlife Care Specialist
Emily joined the OWCN in September of 2010.  She has worked with a variety of marine wildlife in rehabilitation hospitals and research settings in California and beyond. As a member of the wildlife care and processing team during spill responses, she provides essential support of animal care and rehabilitation activities.

Alison Kent
Publications Coordinator
Alison oversees publication of electronic and print publications for UC Davis’ Wildlife Health Center, which includes the OWCN. During an oil spill, Alison is responsible for keeping online information current and helping with media liaison.