Meet Doris Hausleitner!

From Owls to Wolverines: Meet CMI Director Doris Hausleitner!

Originally born in the Yukon, Doris moved to Nelson, BC in 2004, where she started Seepanee Ecological Consulting. She also teaches applied wildlife sciences, ecology and restoration at Selkirk College.

Her work in the West Kootenays focuses primarily on species at risk—including radio-telemetry studies on Western Screech-owls, Western toad migration, and a long-term project on wolverines as the co-founder of the Kootenay Wolverine Project (@wolverine_watch). 

We asked Doris about community, conservation, and what keeps her inspired. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: What drew you to CMI?
“The great people and the organization itself. Plus, having so many wonderful opportunities for professional development right here in our backyard!”

Q: What’s a project you’re most proud of?
“My involvement with wolverine research in the South Columbia Mountains. It’s a powerful example of how field-based science can directly inform and shape policy and conservation. Seeing that tangible impact is easily my favorite part of working in applied ecology.”

Q: What is your advice for early-career ecologists?
“Be a scientist and an advocate. Work on your being able to formulate a story so you can effectively relay complex science to all types of public audiences.”

Q: What’s one thing people might be surprised to know about you?
“People might be surprised by my passions outside work. I’m a beekeeper, an avid gardener, a mom, and a coach. Each one brings me joy in a completely different way.”