Born and raised in Michigan, Jim developed a fascination with the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem while guiding rock climbing trips in Wyoming. His interest deepened as he earned a bachelor’s degree in Earth Science, studying Yellowstone National Park’s geysers and hydrothermal features. After graduation, Jim traveled and climbed extensively, guiding in the United States and Canada before moving to Colorado, where he served on one of North America’s busiest mountain rescue teams.

A passionate wildlife photographer, Jim has documented many of North America’s rarest and most elusive mammals by blending traditional naturalist skills with modern technology. His work has been featured in numerous books and magazines, and he frequently speaks and presents on behalf of conservation causes. Jim earned a master’s degree in Biology from Miami University, further fueling his mission to share the stories of North American wildlife and advocate for the conservation of endangered carnivores, including grizzly bears, wolves, black-footed ferrets, and wolverines.

When he’s not in the field, Jim enjoys exploring new places and trying new meals with his wife, Lana, as well as trail running, rock climbing, and skiing. A lifelong blues fan, he occasionally plays harmonica and is experimenting with growing super-hot chili peppers.