Aaron Bott

Aaron is a wildlife biologist and a doctoral student at Utah State University studying wolves (Canis lupus) across the American West—predicting spatial and behavioral patterns to prevent conflict and promote human-carnivore coexistence.

Aaron's roots in the American Mountain West run deep. His ancestors first settled in the Rockies in the mid-1800s, and his family has remained here since. Growing up between the high country of Yellowstone and Utah’s red rock deserts, Aaron has spent his entire life outdoors, ultimately becoming a naturalist guide as well as a wrangler and farmer. He adds the charismatic flair of a local’s intimate knowledge to the areas in which he guides, and which he loves so well. Since 2008 he has worked as a naturalist, an interpretive wildlife specialist, and backcountry wilderness guide. His expertise includes the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem, and the Colorado Plateau Ecosystem. His knowledge of these territories is exceptional, and his skills as a communicator and educator bring the wonders of these wild places alive to his guests.

Keenly aware of the complex bio-politics surrounding predatory species such as wolves, grizzlies, and cougars, Aaron's western heritage and understanding of wildlife management allow him to move fluidly and genuinely between groups of different cultural values and find common ground without compromising his integrity. Most importantly, he can initiate civil discussions by promoting respect, empathy, and integrity while advocating ways to sustain biodiversity and generate a healthy environment for humans and wildlife. Aaron lives with his wife and their children in Utah.

Upcoming Adventures with Aaron:
Canyons of the American Southwest
Glacier & Waterton: An International Treasure
Yellowstone: Ultimate Wolf & Wildlife Safari

Praise from Nat Hab travelers:

C. Pflasterer
"Aaron's interest in and knowledge of the natural world was evident from the beginning. He was so well-versed in every area and had a natural ability to share his knowledge at a level understood by whomever he was communicating with. If a question was asked by someone in the group, he would later share a little more knowledge individually to make sure they received just what they were looking for. He has an easy, considerate manner with each traveler and got to know everyone as an individual; not always an easy task. His knowledge in every area was outstanding. I would consider his environmental knowledge on the level of a college professor. He is well equipped by his previous experiences for any backcountry adventure as well as for transferring knowledge of the naturalist world to those of us not as familiar with each aspect of that world. It was, indeed, a pleasure to have him on this trip and to learn from him."

T. Peterson
"Aaron is very knowledgeable on so many subjects! His botanical background is especially strong, but he is also strong in literary, historical, biological, zoological, climatological, geological and astronomical discussions/explanations. His passion for the area and for being a naturalist guide is infectious. We all came away knowing a lot more than we did before and can identify different types of trees, flowers, rock and animals. Nat Hab should make sure you don't lose him!"

E. Mickam
"Aaron's enthusiasm, ridiculous knowledge of all things Yellowstone and their passion for wildlife made the experience memorable and surpassed my expectations. He set the bar high, with this being my first group trip. My favorite part was that I could ask him anything, and he always had an answer or opinion backed up with a story. I quickly felt comfortable, like I was on a trip with friends."

J. Carter
"I'd give Aaron more than a 10 in some categories, especially subject knowledge. He also was amazing in responding to difficulties some of us had on the first day's strenuous walk, without neglecting the desires of the one serious hiker in our group. In short, you are very lucky to have Aaron."

M. Fox
"I have been on many adventure trips and have to say that Aaron is one of the very best. He is knowledgeable, patient, ready to help and adventurous. I would definitely go on another trip with him."

R. Schmidt
"Aaron our Expedition Leader was simply outstanding. What a refreshing experience to spend a week with a young man overflowing with passion and eager to shape his passion and knowledge of nature and the outdoors."

J. Zaret
"Aaron exceeded our expectations of an Expedition Leader in every way! We were already incredibly impressed with him, and then I had an accident that required a trip to an emergency room. His efficient, calm and caring response was incredibly reassuring at a stressful time and was most gratefully appreciated. He is certainly an outstanding representative for Natural Habitat Adventures and one that you should be very proud of!"

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