An interview with Darren Lowery, African Ecology and Conservation, Fall 2024
What made you decide to do an OTS program?
I decided to do an OTS program, because I believed it would be an invaluable experience. I had also heard so many great things about it from others who had done [African Ecology and Conservation] AEC and other programs. The experiences that they had and connections that they established made me think that it was something that I had to experience for myself. The locations of the program, as well as the content, really interested me, not only as a scientist in the field of ecology and conservation but as a South African as well. This country has so much to offer, and the AEC course gave me a way to experience it all whilst still learning how to keep these wild spaces safe.
What was the most memorable moment of your trip?
There are so many moments to choose from and picking one will undoubtedly leave many out. I would have to say my most memorable moment from my trip would be all the outings that we had whilst in the Cederberg. The mountains were amazing, and being able to climb them and look down over the landscape was beautiful. The early mornings, when there was still a chill in the air and the light was hitting the mountains, made it look other worldly. Lastly, the pitch-black nights made the stars and Milky Way stand out and gave amazing opportunities for stargazing and photography.
What would you tell a prospective student, who is thinking of joining an OTS program?
I would tell any student thinking about doing an OTS program to 100% go for it. I believe this is one of the best experiences a young aspiring scientist can have. The multitude of different fields you are exposed to is incredible. The course itself can be a bit challenging at times, but at the end of the day it is worth it. You also get to some of the most beautiful places in the country, if not the world, and get to roam freely, as well as getting to do things that the public cannot do.
What was your capstone project at the African Ecology and Conservation program?
My capstone project was looking at how mammal use and impact differed at the open (water still being pumped) water troughs versus the closed (still had the trough but not actively pumping water) water troughs. We did this by using camera traps that we set up, as well as looking at the surrounding vegetation such as ground cover and the closest trees. We really enjoyed doing our fieldwork and got to learn a lot about the trees surrounding the water troughs, as well as getting to see some very cool animals [on] our camera traps.
What are your future career goals?
My future career goals, at least for the next few years, are to become more involved in educating people about the amazing landscapes in South Africa, as well as the animals exposed to during my time at OTS AEC. I believe I will be able to achieve all these goals through a combination of what I learned at OTS, as well as through attending a field guiding course next January. I hope to be able to contribute to the greater field of ecology and conservation to help preserve all our natural spaces and the animals that live in them.
