The best thing about being a biologist (next to studying life…) is your colleagues! Since many of us are generalists, it is wonderful to connect to specialists, as many of our resources and impact analysis require specialists. I recently found a new specialist colleague while searching for assistance with protocol level surveys for Northern Spotted Owls and predator species that we are not currently equipped to handle for clients.
Phil Johnston is a professional wildlife tracker, photographer, nature writer, outdoor educator and musician. He lives in Humboldt County in far Northern California where he works for the Hoopa Valley Tribe as the Mountain Lion Biologist.
His website (Earth at First Sight) is broken up into equally entertaining and informative sections with his own writing, photos and videos. He also offers tracking courses! I highly recommend you check it out!
Animals & land-A combination of amazing photographs and videos plus more in-depth information. Footage caught on Wildlife Cameras of deer brawling over minerals, curious fishers, bear wallowing, bobcats reacting to smelling Puma urine.
Field Work-A description of his work including Puma research and his tracking workshops.
Stories-A handful of great blog posts. Hope he writes more!
Also, here is a link to an article he contributed to regarding the impact of trespass cannabis cultivation on Puma.
Pine Martin photo by Phil Johnston
Photo from HSU LumberJack of Phil teach a tracking workshop. Photo by Walker B. True