Anastasia Sturgis of the Orlando Colonial Senior FFA Chapter in Florida became interested in birds at 5 years old when her parents bought her a duckling. As a freshman in high school, Sturgis constructed numerous aviaries, obtained federal permits to breed endangered bird species, and perfected techniques to handle defensive and aggressive
birds. She used these skills while working at a parrot rescue center to produce high quality exotic pet bird species from rescued macaws, conures, cockatoos, cockatiels, finches and
lories. Sturgis hopes to pursue a career managing threatened avian and game bird species. She is supported by parents Gil and Renee Sturgis and FFA advisor Timothy App. This award is sponsored by Ainsworth Pet Nutrition and Tractor Supply Company.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download