Sam Wilson
Sam Wilson launched his career as a naturalist guide in the Alaska backcountry in 2017, but his immersion in nature and science education is far more extensive. An expert on bird migration and wildlife behavior, he has spent thousands of hours in the field, honing his wildlife observation skills and pursuing his passion for sharing insights into animal behavior and wildlife ecology with others. Sam grew up in New Jersey and has a background in environmental education, having worked for New Jersey Audubon and Wildlands Conservancy. He has also been employed by or volunteered with conservation organizations including Kauai Forest Birds Recovery Project, New Jersey Fish and Wildlife, Prince William Sound Science Center and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. It was a trip to Hawk Mountain in eastern Pennsylvania, in fact, where he witnessed more than 10,000 broad-winged hawks migrating over the rolling ridges of the Appalachians, which ignited his interest in raptors and the spectacular journeys of migratory birds across hemispheres. Since then, Sam has traveled to far-flung locales around the world looking for rare birds and animals. His quests have taken him up remote tributaries of the Amazon, across the mud flats of China’s Yellow Sea and through the dry forests of Cambodia. During his travels, he has nurtured his interests in writing and photography, leading to publications in several magazines. He was selected as a National Audubon Top 100 Photographer in 2018. For a peek at some of Sam's wildlife photography, check out his Instagram: @sam_dubbz_wildlife.
Sam is currently pursuing a master's degree in Natural Resource and Environmental Management with a focus on terrestrial ecology. When he isn't guiding or traveling with his wife, he spends as much time as possible with their rescue dog, Kira.
Upcoming Adventures with Sam:
The Wild Side of China: A Nature Odyssey
Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Safari
Praise from Nat Hab Travelers:
S. Klein
"Sam is personable, knowledgeable and an excellent birder! He was very flexible and able to rearrange scheduled activities on the fly when the weather demanded it."
G. Pickett
"Sam was great! His bird knowledge is very good, and he was always at ease answering questions from other birders. He knew the cultural and natural history of the area and presented engaging info en-route. We felt he was completely approachable with anything we had on our minds!"
S. Summerlin
"This was my first Nat Hab trip and I will do many more because of the quality of the guides. Sam was eager to share his experiences, history, and knowledge of the Everglades and its animal inhabitants. He is great storyteller and frequently entertained the group. He kept the group on time and organized without being controlling. I hope to have Sam as a guide on future trips!"
M. Stephenson
"Sam was excellent. I am visually impaired, and I always appreciated the fact that he would bring along a spotting scope to help me get better views of the wildlife. His knowledge of wildlife (especially birds and bird calls) was outstanding. I would go on a tour led by him in a heartbeat!"
S. Weinstein
"Sam is so knowledgeable about everything! He was easygoing and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure we got the most out of our time. We have been on a lot of trips and Sam is easily in the top 10% of all the guides we've had!"
S. Hood
"Sam has incredible spotting skills and a wealth of knowledge about birds and animals, which he was happy to share with us. He is patient, upbeat and has a great laugh!"
A. Thomas
"Sam was an excellent Expedition Leader. He is an expert at identifying birds and always put our safety first. I would be happy to travel with him again."
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