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Desert Mirage High Students Explore Conservation Careers at The Living Desert

Earlier today, students from Desert Mirage High School in Thermal participated in a career exploration day at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. The event focused on connecting STEM and biodiversity education to real-world career paths in conservation, animal sciences, and environmental sustainability.

Throughout the school year, students collaborate with animal care and horticulture teams at the zoo to gain hands-on experience and build strong resumes.

They worked alongside zoo professionals and conservation experts from The Walt Disney Company to build pollinator pods.

Those pods will be installed at Cotino Story Living by Disney, the new residential community currently under construction in Rancho Mirage.

Organizers say the program not only prepares students for future green careers but also highlights the zoo’s Zoo Teens program, which is now accepting applications for the school year.

By: NBC Palm Springs

October 20, 2025

Desert Mirage High SchoolThe Living Desert Zoo and GardensSTEM educationbiodiversityconservationWalt Disney Companypollinator podsZoo Teens programRancho MirageCotino Story Living by Disney
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New findings reveal what led to the death of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from Big Bear Valley.

A necropsy confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) as the primary cause of her decline. The infection caused a severe stomach ulcer, internal bleeding, anemia and a secondary bacterial infection.

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Desert Mirage High Students Explore Conservation Careers at The Living Desert