CROW Feathers: Bella Bartner, Veterinary Medicine Extern

August 31, 2026

A blue and white logo with the numbers 30 and 3 herons.

Woman in green scrubs holds an Eastern screech owl in blue-gloved hands. Someone outside of frame reaches over and stretches out the owl's wing.
Bella holds an Eastern screech owl during an intake examination.

Where are you from and what’s your position at CROW?

I am from St. Louis, Missouri, and I am a 6-week Veterinary Medicine Extern.

What’s your favorite part of your internship?

My favorite part of being at CROW is the exposure to a diverse array of species. Southwest Florida is a true biodiversity hotspot, offering encounters with unique and amazing animals that I would never have experienced anywhere else. Furthermore, collaborating with such knowledgeable veterinarians has provided invaluable insights and practical knowledge that go far beyond standard veterinary school curriculum.

Favorite animal and why?

My favorite animal is the clouded leopard. They are considered an evolutionary bridge between big cats and small cats and possess the longest canine teeth relative to body size of any living feline. Meaning the resembling modern-day saber-tooths. They have arboreal adaptations, including specialized ankle joints that allow them to climb down tree trunks headfirst and a long tail used for balance high in the canopy. And they have the most beautiful feline coat, in my opinion.

What’s your most memorable CROW moment so far?

My most memorable moment so far has been successfully releasing a brown pelican and a great horned owl back into the wild.

Woman in green scrubs and man in red scrubs hold a magnificent frigatebird in a hospital examination room.
Bella holds a magnificent frigatebird during an intake examination at CROW.

What activities or hobbies do you enjoy outside of CROW?

Outside of veterinary medicine, I am an artist and painter. I oftentimes use animals as my muses.

What has been the most surprising thing during your time here?

The most surprising thing has been witnessing how deeply eager people are to help wildlife. From community members bringing animals in, to our dedicated volunteers and fellow students. It is truly amazing to see a whole community care so passionately for the land and the animals they share their environment with.

What are some goals or aspirations for the future?

My ultimate career goals are to become a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine, work as a full-time veterinarian at a zoo, and actively contribute to wildlife conservation as a researcher in the field.

CROW Feathers are ongoing features of our student interns and externs. Interested in applying to CROW? Click here to learn more.