Abby Hehmeyer

Abby Hehmeyer has worked for WWF since 2015, with a focus on applying technology solutions to address conservation challenges. She currently serves as WWF’s network lead for Wildlife Insights, a collaborative platform that uses artificial intelligence to analyze global camera trap data and deliver real-time information on wildlife populations to decision-makers.

Abby also works to develop and deploy a range of tools to disrupt wildlife trafficking supply chains, in close collaboration and partnership with government enforcement agencies. This includes the use of machine learning algorithms which can automatically detect trafficked wildlife in airport baggage and cargo.

Formally, she worked on WWF’s Climate Adaptation and Resilience team where she managed a partnership with Columbia University and the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies to generate and integrate climate risk information into WWF’s global conservation programs. Abby was also part of the 2019 class of the Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders program, through which she implemented a communications and advocacy campaign for wildlife rangers.

Abby holds a master's degree in wild animal biology from the Royal Veterinary College in London, and a bachelor’s degree in biological anthropology from George Washington University.

Education

• MSc – Wild Animal Biology, Royal Veterinary College, University of London
• BSc – Biological Anthropology, George Washington University

Areas of Expertise

• Conservation technology
• Camera trap data management
• Developing and deploying tools to counter wildlife trafficking
• Training and capacity building
• Project and program development