People
Portrait of Jacelyn Downey.

Jacelyn Downey

Director, Community Building, Audubon Rockies

Jacelyn Downey began her career as a marine science educator and aquarist but began working for Audubon Rockies as a community naturalist in 2006 when she moved to northeast Wyoming with her husband to live and work on the family ranch. Once in Wyoming, Jacelyn focused on sagebrush conservation and getting youth and families to explore the natural wonders of the Rocky Mountain west. In 2015 she won Audubon's highest education award, the Tamar Chotzen Award. Jacelyn serves as a board member for Wyoming's Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust Fund, the Barnyards & Backyards team, and Wyoming Project Learning Tree. Jacelyn enjoys any excuse to be outside with her husband and two daughters, traveling, and cooking for family and friends. 

Articles by Jacelyn Downey

Audubon Rockies and Anderson Ranch Arts Center Kick Off Aspen Summer of Birds
July 23, 2024 — The weeklong workshop encouraged kids to appreciate the wonder of wildlife.
A Western Meadowlark stands alert in a field of tall, green grass.
Where to Look for Birds During Spring Migration
April 25, 2022 — Learn about birds commonly seen in the spring in the Rockies and where to look for them.
Cookes shaped and decorated like Burrowing Owls in flight.
How to Make Bird Cookies
April 19, 2021 — Design and decorate your favorite birds in cookie form!
Educator workshop attendees pose for a socially-distanced photo.
Unexpected Benefits of Virtual Education Programs
October 29, 2020 — Community Naturalist Jacelyn reflects on how the pandemic increased her ability to provide environmental education.
Youth checks net for macroinvertebrates.
Get to Know Local Macroinvertebrates
June 10, 2020 — Learn more about the unsung heroes in your local pond or puddle.
People plant a Habitat Hero garden.
Plant Native Plants With Seed Tape
May 21, 2020 — A seven-step activity for planting small seeds with your kids.
Western Meadowlark tracks.
Signs of Life
April 30, 2020 — Try this activity to help kids notice the animal signs around them.
A bluebird brings food to a check in a nest box.
Create Homes So Bluebirds Come Your Way
January 01, 2008 — Step-by-step instructions for creating nest boxes for bluebirds.