Jilian Hudson

Undergraduate Gamebird Scholar (Reyna Lab)

While Jil Hudson hails from colorful Colorado, she has developed a deep appreciation for Texas and its incredible ecosystems. At the Lyon Center for Gamebird Research, she serves as a technician and field team leader conducting laboratory and field-based research.

Raised in a military family that traveled frequently, Hudson spent her childhood experiencing a variety of cultures and environments across Europe, including a three-year stay in Naples, Italy. Those formative experiences taught her the value of seeing things from multiple perspectives, sparked her curiosity, and shaped her approach to life and learning—always open to new ideas and eager to understand different ways of thinking.

Working in conservation has been a long-time goal for Hudson, who has gained a profound sense of purpose in projects that support quail and other gamebirds. She says the opportunity to engage in hands-on work that directly impacts wildlife preservation is inspiring and rewarding.

A Conversation with Jil

What sparked your interest in gamebirds, wildlife research, or conservation?

My interest in gamebirds began when a good friend introduced me to the lab. Before that, my knowledge of gamebirds was mostly limited to what I'd learned in my coursework. Joining Dr. Reyna’s lab opened my eyes to the world of conservation and efforts focused on gamebirds and their ecological importance. It was a turning point that deepened my appreciation for this field.

A passion for wildlife research and conservation has always been part of who I am. Growing up in Colorado, I spent a lot of time outdoors, and I was continually fascinated by the natural world. Learning how plants and animals interact with their environment—and how they sometimes need our help to thrive—sparked a sense of purpose. Being part of efforts to protect and preserve that beauty feels both exciting and deeply meaningful. Contributing to conservation is more than a career path—it's a lifelong calling.

Describe an exciting or meaningful moment you've experienced with the Lyon Center.

A particularly exciting and meaningful experience has been participating in summer field trips to several Texas ranches, where we conduct call counts to gauge gamebird populations. It was my first opportunity to engage in hands-on fieldwork beyond the classroom, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the wide range of ecosystems across the state. I observed various wildlife in their natural habitat and connected with landowners who share a strong commitment to quail conservation. Hearing their stories and learning about the history of the land added a powerful human dimension to the science, reinforcing the importance of community in successful conservation efforts.

How has your time with the Lyon Center influenced your academic or career path?

My time at the Lyon Center has reignited and deepened my passion for wildlife conservation, extending beyond gamebirds to broader ecological systems. The hands-on experience and exposure to impactful research have been truly transformative, shaping both my academic interests and long-term career goals. The work here has inspired me to pursue a master's program to further my education and continue contributing to the meaningful research efforts underway at the Lyon Center. It's been a pivotal chapter in my journey as a conservation scientist.

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Educational Background

B.S., Wildlife and Conservation Science, East Texas A&M University, 2025

Involvement

Member, The Wildlife Society, East Texas A&M University chapter

Selected Publications and Presentations

Potential Impacts of Grazon Herbicide on Northern Bobwhite Quail Egg Hatching and Chick Production, Annual Research Symposium Poster Presentation, East Texas A&M University