GIORGIA CASTIELLO
Student Researcher—Namoroka Site
Giorgia is a PhD student in Evolutionary Biology at Sapienza University of Rome (Italy). Her research focuses on bioacoustic monitoring of bats and birds to assess how these species respond to various forest management practices. Using bioacoustic techniques, she aims to provide a deeper understanding of the effects of forest management on wildlife.
With a Master’s in Ecobiology from Sapienza, Giorgia is committed to creating conservation strategies that promote both biodiversity preservation and sustainable forest use. Her work aims to safeguard forest ecosystems and their species, particularly in the face of human-caused environmental changes.
Q&A with Giorgia
What draws you to a career in wildlife conservation?
From a young age, I have always had a deep love for nature and animals. My family frequently went on mountain vacations and camping trips, which instilled in me a lifelong passion for the outdoors. A strong connection with nature has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and as I grew up, I realized the critical role that nature plays in our existence, igniting in me a strong desire to protect and preserve it. This growing awareness and desire guided me toward a career in wildlife conservation.
What is one of the coolest experiences you’ve had in your work?
Honestly, working in the field is an incredible experience in itself. Every day feels like an adventure, with the opportunity to observe breathtaking landscapes and encounter a wide variety of wildlife. However, if I had to choose one moment that really stuck with me, it would be the night when I saw countless flying foxes fly in search of food. Watching these incredible creatures move through the night was absolutely breathtaking, an unforgettable sight that perfectly captured the magic of the wilderness!
Is there a book that has influenced you or made a strong impression?
Recently, I came across David Haskell’s book, Sounds Wild and Broken: Sonic Marvels, Evolution’s Creativity, and the Crisis of Sensory Extinction, and it profoundly impacted me. This book explores the critical role of sounds in nature and the intricate connections between these sounds and the living world. It also addresses the issue of sensory extinction and the loss of natural soundscapes, which greatly impressed me and strengthened my motivation to understand and conserve the intricate relationships between sound, biodiversity, and the environment.
What is your favorite movie?
I don’t have a single favorite movie, but I do have a favorite saga: The Lord of the Rings. I am attracted to its fantasy settings and detailed world-building. The engaging story and magical landscapes are something I really enjoy.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite food is pizza. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it also holds a special place in my heart because it ties me to my homeland, Italy. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a moment, pizza is always the perfect choice for me.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would surely choose Madagascar. It’s been a dream of mine since I was a child, and the thought of finally doing fieldwork there is incredibly exciting.
Besides lemurs, what is one of your favorite animals, and why?
I am definitely a bat person. I love all bats, from insectivorous to frugivorous species. They are incredibly fascinating and represent a diverse and ecologically significant group. Their role in ecosystems, from pest control to seed dispersal, also makes them an essential part of the natural world. In a nutshell, bats are awesome!
Why do you care about Madagascar and its wildlife?
I care deeply about Madagascar’s wildlife because this island is home to an extraordinary variety of species found nowhere else on Earth. Madagascar’s unique biodiversity, including lemurs, bats and various plant species, is a key component of our planet’s natural heritage. The island’s ecosystems are highly sensitive and face numerous threats from habitat loss and climate change. Protecting Madagascar’s wildlife means not only preserving these incredible species, but also maintaining the ecological balance and health of the island’s environment. As a conservationist, I passionately support efforts to safeguard these irreplaceable natural treasures and ensure their survival for future generations.