Shelby Esparza

Shelby Esparza

Shelby is a born and raised Texan. She has always been drawn to the outdoors and had a passion for wildlife and conservation.

She graduated from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with a bachelors degree in Biology with a focus in mammalogy and animal behavior. Shelby started her career in conservation with behavioral observation research working with great apes, some of this research was presented at the International Primotological Society in Africa in 2018. As well as avian elcology research studying parrot nestling behavior and visiting Ecuador for field research. After moving to the beautiful Texas Hillcountry, Shelby was the sanctuary manager for a nonprofit wildlife rehab facility overseeing dozens of species including hoofstock, primates, parrots, and reptiles totalling over 800 residents.

Following her heart, Shelby knew it was time to get back to her roots and her love of conservation and spreading the message of species in need and what we can do to help them for generations to come. The animals of Longneck Manor are incredible ambassadors for their wild counterparts. She is honored to be able to work with them everyday while sharing their stories, including how they need our help now more than ever.