Michela grew up in a small town in Boulder County, Colorado, where a love for wildlife and the outdoors took root early on. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Colorado State University in 2022 and began her journey in wildlife rehabilitation at just 18 through an internship at another wildlife center. There, she gained hands-on experience caring for birds, waterfowl, and small mammals, and was later hired on as staff, allowing her passion for wildlife care to grow into a career.

Over the years, Michela has expanded her skills to include field rescue, medical care, and community outreach. She is now fully licensed to rehabilitate reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and bats, and is an internationally Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator through the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. Michela is also currently pursuing her Veterinary Technician Associate Degree through an AVMA-accredited program, working toward becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician. As part of the team at Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, she is deeply committed to giving wildlife a second chance and helping the community build a stronger connection to Colorado’s native species.