I am a naturalist, photographer, and children’s book author. For 28 years, I was Director of VIREO, the worldwide collection of bird photographs at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. Field work has taken me to many parts of the world, especially USA, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Borneo, and Brazil. In addition to birds, I have a strong interest in insects, reptiles, and amphibians and more than a passing interest in many other organisms. Lately, I have been learning about Diptera.
Instilling an interest in nature in children is a particular concern of mine. I have written 25 books on nature for children, including:
BLOWHOLES, BOOK GILLS AND BUTT-BREATHERS
THE CICADAS ARE COMING
THE HIDDEN LIFE OF A TOAD
MARVELS IN THE MUCK: LIFE IN THE SALT MARSHES
FROG HEAVEN: ECOLOGY OF A VERNAL POOL
BIZARRE BUGS
My photography has appeared in publications, and exhibits around the world. You can read more about my books and see my photography at my website: http://www.dougwechsler.com.