Hello everyone,

It is a pleasure to join this community.

My name is Amanda Mendonça. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Veterinary Medicine in Brazil, with graduation imminent and my thesis already approved. Additionally, I work as an English teacher.

Since the beginning of my studies, I have completed several internships focused on wildlife, primarily with terrestrial animals. I have gained significant experience at Jiboias Brasil, the largest boa breeding facility in South America. Furthermore, I have volunteered and interned at ONG Asas e Amigos, a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, maintenance, and rehabilitation of wildlife. My work also extends to environmental education, where I collaborate with schools and the Police of Minas Gerais.

I am excited to share that I have considerable experience in wildlife rescues. In Brazil, there are times when the police and firefighters are unable to complete rescue operations. During such instances, I have been actively involved in rescuing the animals they cannot.

Additionally, I have experience in event planning and organization management, having served as the President of my university’s GEAS (wildlife study group that promotes training and events) for many years. I have organized various events, including congresses, symposiums, and training sessions for veterinarians and students, both online and on-site.

While my publication record is modest, my first significant work involved a rattle transplant in a rattlesnake (Crotalus durissus terrificus). This procedure was necessary due to human interference, which resulted in the snake needing rescue. The rattle was damaged during the rescue, and since releasing an animal back into the wild requires it to be whole and intact, we performed the transplant to ensure its defense mechanism remained functional and to prevent shedding issues.

I am a herpetologist at heart, passionately fascinated by anything related to dinosaurs, including their modern descendants such as birds and reptiles. They are undoubtedly my greatest passion. I am currently working towards my Master's in Conservation Medicine.

I am thrilled to have joined this community and look forward to our mutual growth and learning.

Best regards,
Amanda Mendonça