Hello! I'm Claudia Martinez, your instructor, and the author of this book. My background lies in experimental psychology, with a specialization in primate behavior, specifically focusing on western lowland gorillas in zoo environments. Beyond my research into aspects of gorilla behavior like social interactions, cognitive abilities, and enrichment strategies at Gladys Porter Zoo, I'm deeply passionate about animal welfare in zoo settings. Additionally, I'm enthusiastic about science communication, bridging the gap between research and the general public. With extensive experience in animal behavior research, both in controlled environments and the wild, I'm well-equipped to share my insights with undergraduate students. In my lectures, I involve students in hands-on activities, teaching practical skills like naturalistic observation, data collection and analysis, and scientific presentation, all while exploring gorilla behavior at Gladys Porter Zoo. Moreover, my courses offer opportunities for students to engage in laboratory studies, including those involving rats and hamsters.