Chris Starbird has 25 years experience as a naturalist, guide and teacher. He holds a Master's Degree in Marine Science from Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (98). Chris has worked in the field studying Sea Turtles, Himalayan Snow Cocks, Spotted Owls, and Mountain Lions. From 1994-1998, sea turtles became the focus and his studies in Costa Rica, Mexico, Indonesia and the Caribbean resulted in the publication of nine papers in scientific journals.

Chris worked as a high school teacher for University High School in San Francisco and directed their outdoor education department for six years (99-05). During this time he led over 600 youths on trips kayaking, backpacking, spelunking, rock climbing, mountaineering and rafting. During the summer, Chris worked for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) in Southeast Alaska leading thirty-day kayak expeditions. Chris holds national certifications from the American Canoe and Kayak Association, the American Mountain Guide Association and the Wilderness Medicine Institute.