Samantha is interested in how the composition and configuration of land cover types – such as vineyards, grasslands, and oak savannahs -- can affect Barn Owl nest box occupancy and the areas they hunt in. She used spatial models to predict the hunting pressure owls exert on a landscape as a function of spatial variables. Her research helped build maps showing the distribution of barn owl hunting pressure within vineyards. These maps identify high priority areas for future owl nest boxes.  The research may also help reveal how altering the landscape can affect the delivery of ecosystem services in the form of pest control provided by Barn Owls. After completing her MSc, Sam went to work for the US Forest Service.