Mike guides Nat Hab's China expeditions, where he calls on his conservation biology background and immersion in Chinese culture, language and society to interpret the natural history and environmental development of the world's most populous nation. He is passionate about building bridges across borders, and hopes to communicate this to his guests in every action he takes.

Born and raised in a suburb of Los Angeles, Mike studied economics and conservation biology at UCLA. His love for wildlife and ecology developed early in life while hiking, camping and exploring the national parks of California and the Midwest with his father and friends. He first traveled overseas—to China—during his university years, sparking a lifelong love of travel and a series of solo trips to natural and concrete jungles around the world.

After an early career working in economic development for the governments of the Republic of Fiji and the City of Shenzhen, Mike is now living in Chengdu, Sichuan, where he spends his time outside of guiding with Nat Hab working on domestic and international conservation projects in western China. His hobbies include filmmaking, street photography, exploring protected areas and various other outdoor sports.

Praise from Nat Hab travelers: 

R. Pizzo
"Mike has amazing wildlife and bird spotting skills as well as photography skills. He was very knowledgeable about the creatures we were seeing."

W. Luther Jett
"I thought Mike was excellent and took pains to ensure the comfort of each individual traveler."

J. Ackermann
"Mike went above and beyond to respond to every request!"