Pteravia

Our Mission

Pteravia aims to enrich lives through exceptional birding tours that connect enthusiasts of all levels with nature and each other. We focus on safe, inclusive, and impactful journeys, ensuring memorable experiences and positive contributions to local ecosystems and communities.

About

Founded by professional ornithologist Jeff Birek, every tour at Pteravia is an adventure of connection between people, nature, and the world around us. Our passion goes beyond spotting and identifying birds, it involves immersing ourselves in nature and learning about birds’ ecology and behaviors to gain a deeper understanding of their lives. 

Whether you’re a novice enthusiast or a seasoned birder, Pteravia invites you to join us on an uncommon excursion where every bird is a moment of discovery and every adventure a celebration of nature’s vital beauty.

Meet Your Expert Guide, Ornithologist Jeff Birek

With more than two decades of experience leading field-based bird studies and tours, Jeff Birek is not only a professional ornithologist – he’s a seasoned adventurer who has visited 27 countries on five continents. 

Driven by an unshakeable commitment to conservation, Jeff spent 15 years working and partnering with avian non-profits, government agencies, and universities across North America including Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, Point Blue Conservation Science, Institute for Wildlife Studies, Pronatura Veracruz, Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory, University of California Davis, Colorado State University, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, as well as state and local agencies.

Jeff partners with local organizations to promote and support wildlife research and conservation projects.  By publicizing our tours and their contributions, we raise awareness and garner support for efforts that protect the people, wildlife, and habitat within the communities we visit.