John grew up in a family that loved the outdoors and has been exploring nature for as long as he can remember. Raised in northeastern Arizona, he spent his childhood identifying anything he could find across the region’s varied landscapes. At age 15 he was introduced to birding, and since then he has traveled widely across Arizona in pursuit of an ever-growing life list. For John, birding is a treasure hunt and a perfect excuse to spend time immersed in the natural world.
He is particularly fascinated by migration and vagrant traps, drawn to the challenge and excitement of finding species far from their expected ranges. Beyond birds, John is an enthusiastic naturalist with strong interests in herpetology and insects—anything living captures his attention.
John has spent six years as an Arizona Game and Fish Department Bald Eagle nest watcher, four years surveying Yellow-billed Cuckoos, and one year assisting with Burrowing Owl and Kit Fox surveys. He has been heavily involved with local Audubon societies, guiding for Northern Arizona Audubon while attending Northern Arizona University and for White Mountain Audubon in his hometown of Taylor. He has also served on the Arizona Field Ornithologists Field Expeditions Committee.
