Benny Jacobs-Schwartz

A California native, Benny Jacobs-Schwartz's innate love for nature was evident at a very young age. His interest in the natural world dates back to some of his earliest memories. His outdoor experiences grew rapidly through his participation in multi-week adventure programs during his summers in high school. During his youth, =he was often seen perusing streams and creeks, listening to trees sway in the wind, and exploring wild open spaces. Continuing on this trajectory, he eventually fell in love with birds during a college study abroad program in Costa Rica in 2011.

Since graduating from the University of California, Santa Cruz in 2013, Jacobs-Schwartz has passionately pursued work as an avian field biologist, international bird guide, land steward, and wildlife photographer. These positions have afforded him opportunities to work in a wide variety of locations including Central America, Yosemite, Trinidad & Tobago, Ecuador, and coastal Alaska.

A selection of his photos can be seen in his self-published "A Field Guide to Birds of UC Santa Cruz." When not poring over dense field guides, and chasing rare bird sightings, Jacobs-Schwartz ardently pursues a variety of hobbies like surfing, mountain biking, rock-climbing, yoga, leading outdoor outings for kids, and facilitating photography clinics.

Jacobs-Schwartz's hope is that his love of the natural world will inspire others to conserve and preserve the open spaces around them.