Editor’s Note: This piece was written by Leanna MacBello, our 2025 West Pharmaceutical Horticultural Intern, ahead of her return to Colorado State University. We were truly honored to have her with us this summer — her knowledge, passion and enthusiastic spirit were true assets to our Horticulture and Land Stewardship team. We wish her all the best as she continues her studies!

When I was hired for an internship at Tyler, I expected my days to be surrounded by the serenity of trees and the warmth of the sun. While that is absolutely true, one of the biggest surprises from working at Tyler is the union I’ve made with all aspects of the arboretum.

The highlight of my day is driving around the Scenic Loop in the morning to watch as all of the rabbits, groundhogs, and birds eat their breakfast and clock in for their days.

I feel especially honored when I am watering the dogwoods and am graced by one particular Red-Tailed Hawk who loves to perch in the Pine trees. I’ve lovingly called her “Mama”, as I am sure she has a nest of children she is working tirelessly to feed. The moment between when she hovers over her prey and when she strikes is breathtaking. It always leaves me in awe.

I’ve taken notice of how the local catbirds will follow me around when I’m weeding. They have come to learn that when I pull plants from the ground, I am exposing a feast of worms and other insects. It fills me with such whimsy when I am driving across the street and see a small fox scampering away from me as I approach.

I could sing my praises for Tyler’s wildlife for an eternity, but my internship would be nothing without the people that I worked with.

Everyone on the Horticulture and Land Stewardship team has made my experience here at Tyler one to remember. I will never forget the immediate kindness I was shown by my coworkers, the endless lessons I was taught about trees and perennials, the experience of being taught how to drive the vehicles, the conferences and events I was encouraged to attend, the funny stories that were reflected on, and most of all, the family that the “Hort” team at Tyler has become to me.

I have learned much more than how to water the Dogwoods.

As I am finishing out the last week of my internship, I can offer nothing but thanks to the plants, the dogwoods, the wildlife, and my coworkers.

Thank You for Supporting Tyler Arboretum Internships!

Thank you to West Pharmaceutical Services for their support of Tyler Arboretum’s internship program!

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Tyler Arboretum relies on a community of support to care for this critically important natural space in the heart of Delaware County. Every donation, large or small, helps! Click here to see all the ways you can support Tyler today.

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