My Getaway: a Conversation with Niki Lake

Niki has worked and volunteered for the last 25 years in preserves and natural areas working to protect natural resources and connecting people to nature. She especially loves bats and snakes and can often be found hanging out at Bracken Cave. Currently Niki is in her dream job at the San Marcos Discovery Center getting to do bat walks, have snake festivals, grow native plants, and create/restore habitat. Niki holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Biology and Environmental Studies from Texas State University.

Prior to coming to the Discovery Center, she was Preserve Manager at Wild Basin in Austin, Education Manager at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center in San Antonio, and Resource Specialist / Interpreter at Government Canyon State Natural Area, also in San Antonio.

 Why do you value the natural areas?

Our natural areas are vital to preserving and conserving habitat for our native species, allowing unpolluted recharge which impacts water quality and quantity, and offering us humans time in nature that is so beneficial to our mental and physical health. As we see more development happening, it becomes more apparent how imperative it is to have these intact ecosystems.

Who or what most influenced your view of the natural world?

I was a “feral kid”—allowed to roam in the woods—and that’s where you could find me most of the time (and where I felt the most at home). My family spent hours riding dirt bikes, skiing, fishing, and exploring at the beach. My mom volunteered at the Houston Zoo, and my dad was really into nature photography. These things shaped my path as a wildlife biologist, and I grew up knowing I was connected to, and a part of, nature.

What is your favorite trail? 

My favorite trail is Beatrice at Purgatory Creek.

What do you like about it?

I love the woods (and the shade), the rocky creek, and it’s usually pretty quiet. I notice more wildlife on this trail. But it’s really hard to choose—there are so many great trails!

What do you most enjoy doing when you visit the Greenbelt? 

I am mostly trail running when I visit the Greenbelt, but the thing I enjoy doing there the most is restoration—removing invasives and planting. Having a positive impact.

What recommendations would you give new users of the trail?

If you see wildlife, slow down to pass, take in the experience. Cherish it. Let them know you respect their right to be there. Coexist.