William began his birding journey four years ago while studying ornithology as part of his Wildlife Science degree at Valley City State University, located among the prairies of North Dakota and the forests of Minnesota. His fascination with birds grew quickly as he learned more about them, developing a particular fondness for warblers and owls.
His field experience has played a major role in shaping his skill set and understanding of bird communities. As a Dove Banding Technician, he explored the wide-open prairies of North Dakota. Later, as a CWD Technician with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, he worked in the bluff country of southeastern Minnesota. During his time with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as an invasive species support member, he encountered a variety of western species, including Mountain Bluebird, Lazuli Bunting, and Spotted Towhee.
William is an active member of the Minnesota Chapter of The Wildlife Society and plans to join the Minnesota Ornithologists’ Union. He has a particular love for Sax-Zim Bog, where last winter he experienced unforgettable encounters with Great Gray Owl, Northern Hawk Owl, and Snowy Owl.
(His profile picture captures the moment he saw his first Spruce Grouse.)
