Lexi Arritt, a University of Idaho English student who earned her master’s degree in spring 2026, is developing an online birding platform called Migratory Methods, according to a May 16 announcement. The project aims to bring together narratives about birds, stories and poems, ornithological research, fly zone maps, bird identification resources, and a forum for birders.
Arritt’s initiative highlights the intersection between science communication and public engagement. By combining her background in English with her interest in birds and experience at the university’s Confluence Lab, she hopes to make scientific research about birds more accessible to everyday people.
“I wanted to take what I learned in the English program and turn it into something practical that would be useable and seminal,” Arritt said. “And I want other people to care about birds.”
The Confluence Lab is an English Department program focused on connecting arts, humanities, and science through storytelling related to environmental issues. One of its goals is translating scientific research into engaging language for broader audiences. Past projects have included stories on wildfire experiences and ecological changes observed by local residents.
Arritt explained that her interest in ornithology began during the pandemic when she started bird watching as a hobby. She later connected with researchers at the Palouse Audubon Society where she learned about challenges facing birds such as urban noise pollution affecting their ability to communicate.
“One of the ornithologists introduced me to a study on how urban noise and noise pollution affect birds by making it hard for them to communicate and causes stress,” she said. “It can affect reproduction.” Arritt added that many findings from such research remain unknown outside academic circles: “I asked how do you get this information out there and get people interested… The researcher didn’t have an answer.”
Erin James, professor of English and cofounder of the Confluence Lab, said Arritt’s project aligns with lab objectives: “Our primary mission is to create room for the arts and the humanities in studying and responding to environmental issues that impact rural communities.” James also noted that projects like Migratory Methods increase participation in environmental stewardship: “These projects not only increase participation in environmental care and stewardship but also open up new insights into the experiences of those in our communities, human and non-human alike.”
Looking ahead, Arritt plans ongoing work with undergraduate students at the Confluence Lab as part of her continuing research while serving as assistant director at SEM Communications within Admissions. She intends for Migratory Methods eventually to become an interactive site where visitors can learn about migration patterns or contribute their own observations.
“It will be an interactive community brought together by science, observation and an investment in this fraternity that is made up of citizen scientists,” she said.
