Michael BirtMichael Birt earned a degree in wildlife and fisheries science from Texas A&M University and a
master's in agriculture from Tarleton State University. He is founder and president of
ResearchWild!, a wildlife conservation project, and owner of Lcan 360, LLC, which specializes
in humane removal of wildlife from homes and businesses in the New Orleans area. With a
passion for wildlife conservation, he has spent time studying land, wildlife, and marine
management in Australia, Fiji, Botswana, and South Africa. He has worked as a zookeeper at the
Fort Worth Zoo and as an animal care specialist at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, recognized for its
endangered species breeding program.

Illustrator Emilie Pitre graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in studio and
digital art. A digital analyst and graphic artist, she also illustrates character commissions and
family and pet portraits. Read More Read Less