An independent journalist for 25 years, Melissa has degrees in zoology and journalism and specializes in science, nature, and outdoor-oriented travel. She grew up in Texas, raised three children in Austin, and enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, and scuba diving. Her work has appeared in Men’s Journal, Alert Diver, PBS News, Wildflower, The New York Times, Texas Highways, Texas Parks & Wildlife, the Austin American-Statesman, and many other publications. She is the author of Best Hikes with Dogs: Texas Hill Country and Gulf Coast, A World-wide Travel Guide to Sea Turtles, and Pandas to Penguins: Ethical Encounters with Animals at Risk.