NEWS
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NEWS *
Jack Christie, Herpetologist
If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the scenes caring for - and advocating for - Mississippi’s most misunderstood wildlife, meet Jack Christie.
Since joining MDWFP in January 2026, Jack’s days have already spanned everything from working with the museum’s herpetology collections to heading into the field in search of elusive reptiles and amphibians.
Originally from the Pacific Northwest and now firmly rooted in the Southeast, Jack brings a passion for conservation, a love for “underdog” species.
We’re excited to introduce the herpetologist helping ensure Mississippi’s herps get the attention - and respect - they deserve.
Gabi Guest, Conservation Educator
Whether she’s caring for our animal ambassadors, assisting researchers in the field, or turning a nervous visitor into a newfound snake fan, Gabi Guest’s passion for conservation education shines through in everything she does.
We’re excited to share more about the educator who makes conservation come to life - one question or story at a time!
Museum Staff Spotlight: Nathan Prine, Environmental/Natural Resources Technician
Nathan Prine, Environmental/Natural Resources Technician, brings his lifelong love of wildlife full circle at the Museum. Whether he’s freediving for mussels, cataloging new fish specimens, or prepping for a regional ichthyology conference, Nathan is all-in when it comes to science and conservation. And to think - it all started with visits to the Museum as a kid.
Read how his early curiosity turned into a career he’s proud of, and why he says working with federally threatened and petitioned species is a dream come true.
Museum Staff Spotlight: Tom Mann, Zoologist, MS Natural Heritage Program
For 35 years, Tom Mann, Zoologist with the Mississippi Natural Heritage Program, has been on a mission to protect some of Mississippi’s most unique creatures - from salamanders and snakes to tortoises and rare sandhill plants.
Whether he’s rescuing amphibians on a rainy night, tracking endangered species, or mentoring the next generation of biologists, Tom’s passion for conservation runs deep. In this Staff Spotlight, he shares stories from the field, reflections on a lifetime of science and stewardship, and why he believes protecting nature begins with curiosity and care.