Learn-the-Birds

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Dr Derek W. Keats

Derek was biology professor for over 20 years, and discovered several species new to science (not birds, alas), and even has a species named after him. His studies have encompassed ecology, systematics and phylogeny, as well as technology in education. He has published around 80 academic papers, and more than 100 magazine articles in which he has brought science and nature to lay persons. He has also been a university Deputy Vice Chancellor, held various technology roles in university and business, and is a technology geek. Derek is an accomplished nature photographer on land and under water, with his photos appearing in over 20 books, hundreds of magazines, several mobile apps, and museum exhibits. Today he works in FinTech, but prefers to spend time photographing birds  and unravelling their stories so he can re-tell them to humans. He is co-founder and looks after the technology and arrangements for Learn-the-Birds.
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Dr Danielle Keys

Photo of Danielle holding a bird I am a seabird researcher and conservationist with a PhD in Zoology, and my work focuses on the ecology, movement, and demography of marine top predators, particularly seabirds and the ocean systems that support them. Essentially, I spend my time figuring out what seabirds do, where they go, and how their lives are affected by the changing ocean around them. I have conducted field research in remote environments, including Marion Island, Seychelles, Réunion, Bird Island, and the Kalahari (even though the Kalahari is far from marine, it often feels like an island in its own right), contributing to long-term monitoring and conservation projects. My experience includes seabird handling and ringing, wildlife tracking, behavioural observation, and working in physically demanding field settings. I am especially drawn to seabirds because they sit at the intersection of ocean and land, and their lives reveal powerful stories about environmental change, resilience, and exploration. My fieldwork has taken me to truly isolated places and some of the wildest environments, allowing me to experience natural, largely untouched systems that fill me with hope for our future if we protect what we can. While my primary work is in research and conservation, I am deeply passionate about educating people about marine life and helping them understand the value of seabirds and the ecosystems they depend on. I believe that sharing knowledge, field experiences, and real-world research can foster stronger connections between people and the natural world and inspire meaningful conservation action.
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Hugo Sampaio

Hugo Photo Hugo was born in Coimbra, central Portugal, and holds a degree in Biology. From an early age, he developed a passion for nature and outdoor activities, especially birdwatching. Professionally, he has worked on various conservation projects with SPEA, BirdLife International in Portugal, including monitoring the Azores Bullfinch population, assessing the impact of power lines on birds, and contributing to the Portuguese Atlas of Wintering and Migratory Birds and the Atlas of Breeding Birds. Additionally, he was involved in the conservation of Obô Natural Park and the study of its endemic species for more than a decade in São Tomé and Príncipe. He is currently working on the conservation of threatened steppe birds such as the Great Bustard, Little Bustard and Montagu’s Harrier. With his extensive field experience, Hugo began working as a nature guide a decade ago and has led birdwatching tours in Portugal, the Azores, Spain, Greece, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Bhutan.
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Kirsten Hines

Kirsten Hines is an award‑winning writer, wildlife photographer, and speaker whose work champions the connection between people and nature. Raised in the Philippines and now based in Florida, she blends scientific insight with artistic vision to tell stories that spark curiosity and conservation. Her ten books—including Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey, Birds of Florida, and several Florida‑focused natural history titles—have earned national recognition and multiple gold medals. Her photography appears in exhibitions, public art programs, and major nature‑photography showcases. A lively speaker and top‑rated instructor, she travels widely to teach, guide, and inspire. Kirsten also channels her passion into conservation leadership with non-profit organisations such as Phoebes Birding, Tropical Audubon Society, and BirdLife International.
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Etienne Marais

Etienne is one of South Africa's most experienced birders, a veteran guide and has been training birders for 15 years in an array of skills and specialities. He thinks deeply about the experience of birding.
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