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Jon Feenstra

Raised in the Appalachian ridges of northwestern New Jersey, Jon Feenstra’s playground was the outdoors. Though birding was a passion, it was chemistry that drove his academic education. After graduating college he moved from New Jersey to Los Angeles to conduct graduate research in physical chemistry at the California Institute of Technology. There, all while studying, he became active in Southern California birding: leading field trips, writing articles on bird distribution and local issues, and spending time exploring the diverse and bird-rich area. He finished a Ph.D. dissertation in ultrafast electron diffraction then decided it was finally time to go “all in” and make birding his full-time passion. When not traveling the country or the world, Jon lives in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and works as a free-lance ecological consultant. He volunteers for the Pasadena Society, has served on the board of directors of Western Field Ornithologists, leads many of Southern California’s pelagic trips, and has contributed to several publications on terrestrial and pelagic bird distribution. During any time between those activities he reads widely, brews beer, and plans his next adventure. 

Many of Jon’s photos and tales from the road can be found on his website and blog: www.leaftosser.com

Upcoming Tours with Jon

Testimonials for Jon

Jon does a great job. He makes sure everybody sees the birds. He's very friendly, professional, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable.

- Heidi J. on Ecuador: Mindo and the Northwest Andes

Jon is one of the best tour leaders I've ever had. He is so organized and communicates what we are going to do each day - travel times, weather, etc. I've been on several where they don't share that info. He would also always let us know what he was hearing which I appreciate. Many guides stop telling you the ones you've already seen or heard. And Jon's ID by voice is excellent. 

- Kathy H. on Ecuador: The South

Jon Feenstra is an excellent guide: professional, organized, caring and a good companion. The tour was well-conceived and organized, with a balanced program of walks and stationary observation. We saw a wide variety of birds, along with a few rarities. Very exciting.

- Angelo A. on Ecuador: Mindo and the Northwest Andes

Jon is just outstanding. Easy to talk to, fun to be with, and exhibiting a breadth of knowledge that is astounding.

- Michael J. on Ecuador: The Amazon Lowlands 1

In addition to being a great guy, Feenstra is an extraordinary spotter and tracker. At the Salton Sea, we were having difficulty identifying two distant gulls, which might or might not have been yellow-footed. They took off from the lake and disappeared over the horizon, but Jon managed to drive us to the exact remote field where they landed for close-up views. 

- Charles F. on California: Central and Southern