Sheila Colla

North American Co-Coordinator for the Species Survival Commission Bumblebee Specialist Group at IUCN | Toronto, Ontario, Canada

About Sheila Colla

Sheila Colla serves as the North American Co-Coordinator for the Species Survival Commission Bumblebee Specialist Group at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), where her expertise in biodiversity and wildlife biology plays a pivotal role in advancing global conservation efforts. With a keen focus on extension, outreach, and research, Sheila is dedicated to fostering collaboration among not-for-profits, government agencies, and academic institutions to enhance biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services.

One of her key projects involves conducting a comprehensive status assessment of approximately 250 bumblebee species worldwide, utilizing the Red List Categories and Criteria. This critical initiative aims to identify species that are imperiled—those classified as Extinct in the Wild (EW), Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), or Near Threatened (NT). By systematically evaluating the conservation status of these species, Sheila and her team can provide essential data that informs policy decisions and conservation strategies at national and state levels.

Her skills in report writing, data analysis, and peer reviews are instrumental in synthesizing research findings and communicating the urgency of bumblebee conservation to diverse stakeholders. Additionally, Sheila actively engages in citizen science initiatives, empowering communities to participate in biodiversity monitoring and fostering a deeper understanding of the ecological roles that bumblebees play. Through her work, Sheila Colla exemplifies a commitment to sustainable development and the preservation of wildlife, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the benefits of a thriving ecosystem.

Sheila Colla Work