Wings of Survival
Takes Flight

During The Wildlife Society’s 2025 Annual Conference in Edmonton, Alberta, attendees heard Leanna Carriere share an ambitious vision. Together with her partner, conservation scientist Timm Döbert, she discussed a plan to follow the migratory pathway of a whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) on a human-powered bike expedition from Prudhoe Bay in Alaska to Ushuaia, the southern tip of South America.

World-class athlete Leanna Carriere and conservation scientist Timm Döbert begin a human-powered “migration.”

18.0K

18,000 Miles

in 9 months

On August 1, that vision is one peddle closer to reality, as Carriere and Döbert officially embarked on their journey.

15 Countries

Expedition

Over the next 9 months, the duo will cycle over 18,000 miles across 15 countries as part of their “Wings of Survival” expedition, using the journey to engage people with wildlife conservation and the science that supports it.

Endurance + Conservation

At first glance, endurance sports and wildlife conservation may seem like unlikely companions. However, by combining athletic achievement with storytelling, Carriere and Döbert hope to connect broader audiences with wildlife, conservation challenges and the people working to address them.

Commitment to Science

Their mission aligns closely with TWS’ longstanding commitment to advance science while ensuring that the work of wildlife professionals reaches beyond academic journals and technical reports.

Empowering a Connection

Conservation is ultimately dependent upon the public’s connection with nature. At its core, “Wings of Survival” is about inspiring and empowering that connection with a broader audience.