Jake has been a passionate birder and naturalist since early childhood. Growing up in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, his interest in nature began with butterflies in preschool after finding Mourning Cloak caterpillars on a sidewalk. He later discovered birds in middle school after seeing his first Scarlet Tanager at the age of 11 during a family walk. Around the same time, Jake’s father took up wildlife photography, and they spent almost every weekend photographing birds throughout Jake’s high school years. As his passion for birding grew, Jake spread his wings and explored much of Wisconsin, birding in 48 counties and recording 345 species. He now has 15 years of birding experience and extensive knowledge of southeastern Wisconsin birding hotspots. Jake especially enjoys photographing ducks, warblers, raptors, and owls. In addition to birds, he also loves photographing butterflies during the spring and summer months. His butterfly life list includes more than 100 species and continues to grow.
Jake graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2022 with a degree in Environmental Science. Shortly after graduating, he spent a winter working for Auburn University as a field technician. In this position, he piloted a drone to count and identify wintering waterfowl species within the Tennessee River watershed in northern Alabama. After returning to Wisconsin, Jake worked as a Naturalist at the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, where he got his first taste of guiding by leading bird walks during migration season, teaching environmental programs, and leading summer camp activities. Jake is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Water Management at the University of Oklahoma.
Jake is excited to guide with American Birding Guides and share his passion for birds. He thoroughly searches areas to find every bird possible and brings a fun, lighthearted energy to the field. As a seasoned naturalist and birder, he looks forward to sharing his knowledge with others. Some of Jake’s other interests include running, fishing, Formula 1, and rock climbing.
