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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

The Amazon Lowlands tour was excellent. Jon was very knowledgable, kind, considerate and funny, and a great team player. I cannot imagine anything else I could hope for in a guide. The trip itself was a marvelous adventure, from the trip up the Napo River to arriving at the Sani Lodge to the excellent bird watching, to the great local guides, canoe trips, canopy tower and interaction with the Sani people. The food was very good and the Sani people couldn’t do enough for us. Thank you WINGS for your excellent organizational skills in putting together this amazing trip.

- Harvey K. 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

Jon Feenstra was a superb tour leader. His knowledge of Ecuador's birds is absolutely amazing! Pairing this with brilliant organization, his easygoing way, good sense of humor, and patience with all of us learning the names, I have very high regard for him as a tour leader.

- Eric W. on Ecuador: Eastern Andes to Amazon Lowlands

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

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