Latin America Webinars
WEBINAR | Conservation Connect: The Jaguar ID Project & Protecting Brazil’s Biggest Cat
Jaguars are the largest cats native to the Americas. Where they once roamed from the tip of Argentina to the U.S.-Mexico border, now, they are found only in remote regions of South and Central America. In this Conservation Connect interview, Abbie Martin, founder of the Jaguar ID Project, talks about how the non-profit monitors and protects the jaguars of Brazil’s Pantanal—the densest population of these elusive cats on Earth. Plus, learn how travelers like you can help save jaguars by contributing to citizen science data!
WEBINAR | Explore Wild Costa Rica: Small in Size, Big on Biodiversity
The natural marvels of Costa Rica are in a class all their own, from lush rainforests and volcanoes to pristine beaches and misty mountains filled with wildlife. Explore less-discovered realms of this biodiversity hotspot as Expedition Leader Alex Arias details our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica and Costa Rica Wilderness Explorer adventures. Discover the abundant wildlife we’re likely to encounter, such as toucans, tree frogs, tapir, sloths, squirrel monkeys and sea turtles. Get advice on what to pack, and check out some of the deluxe jungle ecolodges where we stay.
WEBINAR | Who's Who? How Identifying Individual Animals Can Help Save a Species
Just like human fingerprints, many animals sport unique patterns of coloration, stripes or other features that let us identify them as individuals. Expedition Leader Maria Marcias explains how photo identification is used by conservationists to study and protect marine animals. Learn what identifying individual animals—in particular gray whales—can tell us about a species as a whole, and meet some gray whales that researchers in Baja have monitored for years. Plus, find out how your photos can aid in scientific data collection and conservation efforts!
WEBINAR | Conservation Connect: Sea Turtles & the Last Straw for Single-Use Plastics
In 2015, a team led by Christine Figgener, Ph.D., encountered a sea turtle during a research trip in Costa Rica. The turtle had a 10–12 cm plastic straw lodged in its nostril. After the team removed it, the video of the rescue sparked a backlash against single-use plastics. In our latest Conservation Connect webinar, Chris speaks about the threats to these endangered reptiles, conservation initiatives to protect sea turtles, and how the viral rescue video gave her a platform to share ocean conservation priorities with the global community.
WEBINAR | Seeking Seabirds: Exploring the Galapagos Aboard the Natural Habitat Petrel
From blue-footed boobies to penguins and petrels, the Galapagos Islands offer travelers an abundance of birding opportunities. Avian biologist and Expedition Leader Jonathan Guillen details our eastern itinerary through the Enchanted Isles aboard our 115-foot motorized catamaran, the Natural Habitat Petrel. He also introduces some of the seabirds we encounter, including the Galapagos penguin, waved albatross, frigatebird, and Nazca, blue-footed and red-footed boobies, along with the bird for which our ship was named: the fleet-winged petrel!
WEBINAR | North to South & Back Again: Nature Photography Across the Americas
From the Arctic reaches of northern Canada to the humid climes of the Amazon, the Americas offer a wealth of nature photography destinations no matter what sort of adventure you seek. Expedition Leader Fernando Romo shares his travel tales and photos from across North and South America, including places we visit on our Nat Hab trips: Patagonia, Peru, Costa Rica, the Galapagos, Mexico, the United States and Canada. Plus, get his tips for photographing wildlife like monarch butterflies, pumas, resplendent quetzals, humpback whales and more.
WEBINAR | Journey to the Kingdom of the Monarchs
Each winter, Mexico’s forested Central Highlands play host to one of nature's most thrilling spectacles: the migration of millions of monarch butterflies. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares everything you need to know before your Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure, from what to pack to stay warm at high altitudes, to where we stay and how we travel to see the butterflies (including on horseback). Find out about the cultural experiences included on our itinerary and the authentic local cuisine we enjoy—a highlight of the trip for foodies!
WEBINAR | The Enchantment of Birding in Baja
Mexico’s Baja Peninsula sits at the intersection of ocean, wetlands, forests, mountains and desert. This environmental diversity brings with it a wealth of plant and animal life, including hundreds of species of permanent and migratory birds. Expedition Leader and marine biologist Daniela Nieto introduces us to some of the birds of Baja and the sanctuaries along the peninsula that serve as resting spots for birds along migration routes and homes for many of the area’s endemic birds. She also explains what birds can tell us about an ecosystem’s health.
WEBINAR | Giant Tortoises of the Galapagos: Ancient & Endangered
Giant tortoises are some of the most iconic animals in the Galapagos -- and some of the most threatened. Expedition Leader and marine ecologist Luis Vinueza has spent nearly 30 years studying, working and guiding in the Enchanted Isles. He shares his knowledge of these ancient creatures, how they arrived on the islands, their evolution and the key role they play in the area’s ecosystems. He also addresses the threats giant tortoises face and the conservation efforts underway to protect and restore their populations—and how sustainable travel can help!
WEBINAR | Mexican Jaguar: The Mighty Mayan Balam
Jaguars hold a precarious position in Mexican culture, regarded as maneaters and pests by some and gods by others. But the truth lies somewhere in between. Mexico Expedition Leader Melissa Silva offers a balanced view of this controversial cat, from its natural history and biology to its place in ancient Mayan mythology. Discover the similarities and differences between jaguars that live in Mexico and those in South America, learn what’s being done to protect these endangered felines, and find out where to see them in the wild for yourself.
WEBINAR | Unraveling the Mysteries of the Gray Whales of Baja
Each winter, thousands of gray whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the Arctic to the warm waters along the coast of Mexico's Baja Peninsula to breed, give birth and nurture their young. At approximately 12,000 miles round-trip, it's the longest migration of any living mammal! Expedition Leaders Sofia Merino and Maru Marcias discuss these gentle giants and their mega migration, from their unique feeding habits (and how they’ve helped gray whales survive for millions of years) to why they're considered the friendliest whales on Earth.
WEBINAR | Meet the Big Cats of Mexico
When we think of big cats, we tend to think of the lions and leopards of Africa or the tigers of India. But you'll also find plenty of impressive felines just south of the U.S. border! Expedition Leader Melissa Silva introduces us to several species of big cats found in Mexico, from puma, jaguar and bobcat to the less familiar jaguarundi and margay. Learn about their biology and ecology, their importance in Mesoamerican cultures, and the conservation efforts underway to protect these vulnerable species.
WEBINAR | Exploring the Kingdom of the Killer Whale
Dive into the fascinating world of the killer whale, apex predator of the ocean. Expedition Leader and marine biologist Eric Ramirez shares the natural history of killer whales (also known as orcas), including their biology, ecology, dietary habits, communication skills and behavior. Learn about the different types of killer whale subspecies, delve into family dynamics and gain insight into their global distribution and importance in the ocean food chain. Eric will also highlight current research and ongoing orca conservation efforts.
WEBINAR | Monarchs in Motion: Understanding the Importance of Their Epic Migration
The 3,000-mile annual migration of monarch butterflies from southern Canada to Mexico is an extraordinary journey, vital for pollination and ecosystem health. It also holds profound cultural significance for many people who witness the monarchs’ flight each year. Biologist Eric Ramirez explores the role monarch butterflies play in communities along their route, diving into their important ecological role and how the butterflies have become a potent symbol of unity and connection among the cultures that exist in their midst.
WEBINAR | Big Bites, Part II: More Strong Mouths in the Animal Kingdom
The Big Bad Wolf had a toothy grin, but when it comes to animals with the strongest bites, he doesn't top the list! Expedition Leader Arpita Dutta introduces us to creatures with some of the world’s most menacing jaws, including predators like the polar bear, jaguar, hippo and leopard seal. Learn how scientists measure bite force and how a strong bite serves a wild animal, from attacking and defending against other animals to tearing and grinding food.
WEBINAR | The Great Gray Whales of Baja
Each winter, gray whales migrate 6,000 miles from Alaska to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, the longest mammal migration on Earth. These once-endangered gentle giants now thrive in sheltered lagoons like San Ignacio, the site of Nat Hab's Baja whale adventure, where they breed and give birth. Curious gray whales often approach our boats, offering close encounters and excellent photo opportunities. Expedition Leader Sofia Merino, who has dedicated her professional life to studying these whales, shares details of Nat Hab’s winter whale adventures in Baja—which promise to spoil you for whale watching anywhere else!
WEBINAR | Discover the World of Whale Sharks
The largest fish in the sea, whale sharks reach lengths of up to 62 feet and can weigh up to 30 tons—longer than a school bus and as heavy as some yachts. Despite their mass and 3,000 teeth, whale sharks are harmless to humans. They eat plankton and small fish by filtering water through their gills, a process known as filter feeding. Marine biologist Eric Ramirez shines light on whale shark behavior, migration patterns and their vital role in marine ecosystem health. Learn about ongoing whale shark conservation efforts and where to find these “gentle giants.”
WEBINAR | Epic Migrations: Mapping the Mystery of Animal Movements
Meet some of nature's most intrepid travelers, from the wide-ranging wildebeest of the African Serengeti to the monarch butterflies that wing their way from North America to Mexico each fall. Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez unravels the mysteries of animal migrations and explores their importance to ecosystems worldwide. Learn how various migrations affect biodiversity, support ecological balance and even impact human life. Then find out where you can witness some of nature's most awe-inspiring migrations on Nat Hab adventures!
WEBINAR | Capturing the Enchanted Isles: Galapagos Photography Tips
If it's variety you want to photograph in a nature travel destination, the Galapagos delivers! From high-flying seabirds to slow-moving tortoises to swiftly swimming sea lions, the Enchanted Isles offer opportunities for all kinds of wildlife photography. Expedition Leader and pro photographer Court Whelan shares his advice for photographing the unique creatures of the Galapagos. Learn what camera gear to pack to shoot both terrestrial and underwater wonders, find out how to capture the perfect photo of a Galapagos sunset, and discover the best settings for macro images of minute flora and fauna.
WEBINAR | Meet Mexico's Multifaceted Miracle Cactus, the Prickly Pear
It's a plant of many names: Opuntia, nopal and, perhaps most familiar, prickly pear. With its bright green paddles, vibrant pink fruits (known as pears or tunas) and its colorful flowers, the nopal is a favorite feature of the Mexican landscape. The Aztecs used Opuntia juice to treat burns and other ailments, and the cactus is still a staple of Mexican cuisine and culture today. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares her extensive nopal knowledge, from its botanical characteristics and ecological significance to its nutritional and medicinal properties.
WEBINAR | From Sea Urchins to Starfish: Exploring Echinoderm Diversity
Dive into the undersea world of echinoderms like starfish, sea urchins, sand dollars, sea cucumbers and sea lilies. Marine biologist and Expedition Leader Melissa Silva introduces the five main types of echinoderms, including details about their unique anatomical features and adaptations (including the ability to regenerate body parts!) and the roles they play in their marine ecosystems, from the ocean floor to kelp forests. Learn about the importance of echinoderms in global and local economies and the conservation initiatives underway to protect them.
WEBINAR | Gulf of California: "The World's Aquarium"
Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau dubbed the Gulf of California (or Sea of Cortez) "the world’s aquarium" due to its rich diversity, from sharks and sea turtles to whales, rays and dolphins. The narrow body of water separates the Baja California peninsula from the Mexican mainland and is home to nearly 100 endemic species, including the critically endangered vaquita, the planet's smallest porpoise. Discover the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem with marine biologist and Mexico Expedition Leaders Melissa Silva and Eric Ramirez.
WEBINAR | In Search of Jaguars in Brazil’s Pantanal
Jaguars are some of the most mesmerizing creatures on the planet. And the best place to see them? Brazil’s biodiversity hotspot: the Pantanal. Expedition Leader Helder Brandao shares all you need to know about our journey through the marshes, islands and savannas of the Pantanal—the world’s largest wetland. Learn about our activities -- nature walks, 4x4 drives, boat rides and canoe safaris -- and the animals we’ll go in search of: giant anteater, Brazilian tapir, ocelot, capybara, giant river otter, maned wolf, caiman and, of course, jaguar. Plus get a sneak peek at our sustainable accommodations, including the remote and secluded Caiman Ecological Refuge. Please note that visas will be required on trips starting on or after April 1, 2025.
WEBINAR | The Amazing Axolotl: Mexico City’s Endemic Amphibian
You’re likely familiar with the axolotl’s adorable visage. But did you know that this tiny salamander was once considered a god in Aztec mythology, or that nowadays it is the subject of scientific research due to its ability to regenerate its limbs -- and even its heart and brain? Mexico Expedition Leader and marine biologist Melissa Silva lives in Mexico City, where she has first-hand experience observing axolotls, which are endemic to the lakes and canals of Xochimilco. She shares the natural history of the species: its biology, its cultural and ecological importance, the threats it faces, and what’s being done to protect it.
WEBINAR | How Ancient Aztec Agriculture Thrives in Mexico City
Mexico City’s floating gardens at Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are the enduring result of sophisticated agricultural practices dating back to the Aztec Empire. Today, this system of canals and artificial islands, known as “chinampas,” provides essential habitat for endemic species like the axolotl, Expedition Leader Melissa Silva traces how ancient agricultural ingenuity supports modern urban ecology, looking at how species diversity can thrive in one of the world’s largest cities.
WEBINAR | Know Before You Go: Amazon & Machu Picchu
A spectacular combination of nature, history and culture awaits on our journey to the Lost City of the Incas and the Peruvian Amazon rain forest. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino shares all the details: Get an overview of our accommodations on a luxury riverboat in the Amazon and secluded retreats in the Sacred Valley, find out what to pack for these two wildly different climates, and learn about the animals you may encounter, from sloths, pink river dolphins and tropical birds in the rain forest to the free-roaming llamas of Machu Picchu.
WEBINAR | Meet the New Mammals Just Discovered in Peru
Get a first-hand account of a recent scientific expedition to the eastern Andes of Peru -- a biodiversity hotspot that’s still one of the least-studied areas in South America due to its remote location. Expedition Leader Marcus Oliveira and special guest Silvia Pavan, the assistant professor in the Biological Sciences department at Cal Poly Humboldt who led the expedition to Parque Nacional del Rio Abiseo, share the results of the trip, including the numerous new species of small mammals (primarily rodents and marsupials) the team identified!
WEBINAR | The Galapagos: Adventure in the Enchanted Isles
There may be no better place on the planet for close encounters with wildlife than the Galapagos Islands! Join Expedition Leader Andres Vergara to find out what to expect on our adventures in the Enchanted Isles, from snorkeling with sea lions and swimming with turtles, to scouting for whales and camping with giant tortoises. Learn about life aboard our privately chartered small ships (limited to just 14–16 guests), what the weather is like during different seasons, and how to pack for this otherworldly adventure.
WEBINAR | Get Ready for the Great Amazon River Expedition
Voyage all the way to the headwaters of the Amazon River on a luxury riverboat for just 28 guests. Expedition Leader Guillermo Knell shares everything you need to know about our Great Amazon River Expedition -- an intimate immersion in Peru’s tropical wilderness as we explore the world’s largest rain forest. Follow the river’s tributaries and small creeks by skiff, looking for caiman, river otters and pink river dolphins. Ashore, walk beneath the emerald tree canopy looking for monkeys, sloths and scarlet macaws. Guillermo also introduces us to some of the local Indigenous people and shares how our presence helps protect the Amazon’s precious natural resources.
WEBINAR | Playful Pinnipeds: Sea Lions of the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are brimming with fascinating wildlife, but we admit we have a soft spot for the Enchanted Isles' most common -- and playful -- marine mammals: sea lions. Learn all about the biology of these pinnipeds -- an order that includes fin- or flipper-footed marine mammals such as seals and walruses -- and what the differences are between curious Galapagos sea lions and shyer Galapagos fur seals (which are, despite their name, also sea lions!). And discover how you can swim, snorkel and kayak with sea lions on our Galapagos adventures.
WEBINAR | Journey to Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley
Hidden to Western explorers until the early 1900s, the ruins of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu await on this in-depth adventure to the Sacred Valley of the Urubamba River in the Peruvian Andes. Expedition Leader Rosa Alegria Gonzales shares everything you need to know before your trip. Get tips on what to pack for exploring at high altitudes;, enjoy a preview of the places we stay, (such as the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, named one of National Geographic's Unique Lodges of the World), and learn about the wildlife we may encounter—including Peru’s iconic llamas!
WEBINAR | Bound for Mexico: Exploring the Wintering Grounds of the Monarch Butterfly
The oyamel fir forests of Mexico's Central Highlands play host to one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles: the annual migration of millions of brilliant orange-and-black monarch butterflies. Journey with Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen to explore the wintering grounds of this beloved -- but endangered -- butterfly. Learn about the ecological significance of the monarch migration, find out about conservation efforts to ensure this wonder persists, and discover how you can experience it for yourself on our Kingdom of the Monarchs trip.
WEBINAR | Get Ready to Meet the Great Gray Whales of Baja
Each winter, hundreds of gray whales return to their breeding and birthing grounds along the coast of Mexico's Baja Peninsula. And on our Great Gray Whales of Baja trip, you're there to greet them! Join Expedition Leader Sofia Merino to learn more about this amazing migration adventure, including what to bring, how we view the whales (up close on SIX small-skiff excursions), and where we stay: in private thatched "whale cabanas" at our eco-camp on the shoreline of San Ignacio Lagoon.
WEBINAR | Destination Diversity: Ecosystems of the Peruvian Amazon & Andes
Peru is a land of extremes, from the flooded forests of the Amazon to the heights of the Andean mountains. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino leads us through the diverse ecosystems we traverse on our Peru adventures and introduces us to their animal inhabitants. Encounter llamas and alpacas in the grassy paramo, look for the world's largest hummingbird in the intermontane valleys, search for Andean bears and condors in the humid montane forests, and spot sloths, monkeys and birds in the palm forests and shrub swamps of the Amazon.
WEBINAR | Building Machu Picchu: An Ancient Engineering Marvel
The Inca established the largest empire in the pre-Columbian Americas, spanning from grassland savannas to tropical rain forests to the Andean Highlands. One of the crowning achievements of this civilization was the construction of the city of Machu Picchu. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino reveals why this architectural wonder was such an impressive feat of engineering, describes some of the construction techniques used by the Inca, and explains how and why Machu Picchu was built on such challenging terrain.
WEBINAR | Protecting the Petrel: Seabird Conservation in the Galapagos
The swift-flying petrel is one of a handful of seabirds endemic to the Galapagos Islands. They’re so iconic, in fact, that one of the ships we charter for our Galapagos adventures is named Petrel! Unfortunately, petrel populations are in decline across the Galapagos, primarily due to invasive species that destroy their nesting habitats or prey on petrels themselves. Galapagos Expedition Leader Jonathan Guillen introduces us to the petrel and explains the threats they face and what’s being done to protect them.
WEBINAR | Marvelous Migrations: Meet Mexico’s Winter Residents
Each winter, Mexico plays host to several species that move from their spring and summer homes in the north to the warmer southern climes of Mexico. In this webinar with Expedition Leader Melissa Silva, meet some of these marvelous migrating animals, including humpback and gray whales, monarch butterflies, and dozens of species of birds. Discover the reasons behind these migrations -- reproduction, feeding, hibernating and more -- and what you can do to help ensure they continue.
WEBINAR | Return of the Monarchs: Demystifying the Butterfly’s Journey
The autumn monarch butterfly migration from Canada and the U.S. to the highlands of Central Mexico is the greatest of all insect migrations and the only known butterfly migration on Earth. Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen unravels the mysteries of one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders and explains the when, where, why and how of the monarch migration. Plus, learn how you can help protect this beautiful but endangered butterfly and experience this natural phenomenon for yourself!
WEBINAR | Mexican Beauty: The Nature of Day of the Dead
You may associate the Mexican holiday of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) with colorful costumes, calaveras (skulls) and richly decorated altars. But this holiday also has deep roots in nature. Expedition Leader Melissa Silver explains the cultural significance of nature to this sacred celebration, from monarch butterflies (said to be the souls of ancestors) and Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dogs thought to guard humans during life and after death), to the orange cempasúchil flowers (marigolds) placed on altars.
WEBINAR | Costa Rica: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Costa Rica may be small in size, but it’s big on biodiversity within its varied ecosystems - from lush rainforests and misty mountains to jungle lowlands and sandy shorelines. Join Expedition Leader Alex Arias as he details our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica and Costa Rica Wilderness Explorer adventures. Learn how to pack, get a peek at some of our deluxe jungle ecolodges, and discover the wildlife we’re likely to encounter, from toucans, tree frogs and tapirs to sloths, squirrel monkeys and sea turtles.
WEBINAR | Peru's Cultural Hidden Jewels
Peru is an ideal destination for wildlife lovers and culture buffs alike, from the abundant wildlife of the Amazon to the ruins of ancient Machu Picchu. Born in the Sacred Valley, Expedition Leader Francis Casapino introduces us to the history and culture of his country. Travel through the various eras of the past, including the rise and fall of the Inca Empire, and discover four aspects of Peruvian culture that persist today, from weaving and farming to religion and the Indigenous people themselves.
WEBINAR | Know Before You Go: Patagonia Wilderness & Wildlife Explorer
Where can you find penguins, pumas, peaks and snowy glaciers all in one place? Why, Patagonia! Expedition Leader Helder Brandao helps you prepare for our Patagonia Wilderness & Wildlife Explorer, from where we go and what to pack to how we get around and what our accommodations are like. Learn all about the activities in store, including puma tracking, private glacier cruises, a visit to a penguin colony and more!
WEBINAR | Know Before You Go: Kingdom of the Monarchs
The forested Central Highlands of Mexico are the stage for one of nature’s most thrilling spectacles: the annual migration of millions of monarch butterflies. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares everything you need to know before your Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure, from what to pack to stay warm at high altitudes, to what our accommodations are like in the small mountain town of Angangueo, and how we get to the butterflies (including on horseback!). She’ll also give us a sneak peek at the cultural attractions included on our unique itinerary, and the authentic local Mexican cuisine we enjoy -- a highlight of the trip for those who enjoy good food!
WEBINAR | Seabirds of the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their prolific birdlife, from Darwin’s famous finches to pelagic penguins and petrels. Join Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza as he introduces us to some of the seabirds of the Galapagos, including blue-footed and Nazca boobies, waved albatrosses, Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants. Learn about the adaptations that allow them to thrive in this unique environment, their mating and nesting habits, and how they’re threatened by climate change.
WEBINAR | Journey to Machu Picchu: From the Inca Civilization to Today
Adventure back in time to explore the wonders of one of the most powerful civilizations on Earth. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino reveals the mysteries of the Inca Empire and introduces us to its descendants, many who still reside in the Andes today. We’ll journey to Cusco, the once gold-laden capital of the empire, and on to the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Along the way, encounter diverse topography and learn about local wildlife including spectacled bears, Andean condors and giant hummingbirds.
WEBINAR | Top Predators of the Flooded Amazon
The Amazon Basin is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth -- making the area a veritable smorgasbord for hungry predators! Expedition Leader Renzo Zeppilli introduces us to some of the many predator species that call this dense jungle home. Meet the black caiman, giant river otters, and anacondas that glide through the blackwater rivers and tributaries. Overhead, the harpy eagles and other birds of prey fly on high, picking off smaller birds, fish, and even sloths and monkeys. Discover all the drama in this riveting webinar!
WEBINAR | Lost Giants: Mexico's Ice Age Megafauna
Travel back in time to meet some of the remarkable creatures that once roamed prehistoric Mexico, from woolly mammoths and giant ground sloths to saber-toothed cats. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva introduces us to key megafauna species and their biology, behaviors and relationships with their Ice Age ecosystems. You’ll also learn about these now-extinct animals’ interactions with early human populations and find out where you can see their fossils in modern-day Mexico
WEBINAR | Mexico's Many Natural Gifts to the World
Mexico has given the world so many gifts from nature we take for granted, from color television to chewing gum. This webinar explores just a few of the culturally and economically significant products originating in Mesoamerica that are now common worldwide. Expedition Leader Mel
WEBINAR | Behind the Camera: Inside the Monarch’s Milkweed Kingdom
Join conservation photographer and Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen on a photographic journey that feels straight out of an episode of The Magic School Bus. Shrink down to insect size as you explore milkweed prairies in the Adirondacks and fly alongside monarch butterflies during their annual migration to Michoacán, Mexico. Learn about the importance of milkweed to a wide variety of insects, the monarch migration, and how you can visit the Kingdom of the Monarchs for yourself.
WEBINAR | The Galapagos Islands: A Trip of a Lifetime
Where can you find the only penguins in the Northern Hemisphere, the world’s sole seagoing lizard, and some of the oldest living vertebrates on Earth? The Galapagos, of course! Join marine ecology professor and Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza to discover what makes this group of islands one of the most fascinating and biodiverse places on the planet. Learn what to expect on a Nat Hab Galapagos adventure, from wildlife (marine iguanas, sea lions, giant tortoises, sea turtles, whales!) to activities (swimming, snorkeling, panga rides!).
WEBINAR | Sharks: Misunderstood Heroes of Our Oceans
Sharks are ancient creatures, considered by many scientists to be living fossils! Join marine biologist and Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez as he dives into shark biology and explains the important role they play in the marine ecosystem. He’ll also bust some common shark myths and share a few of the threats sharks face from illegal fishing, pollution and habitat loss and the actions conservationists are taking to protect these fascinating fishes and their ocean environment.
WEBINAR | Wild Baja: Conservation Through Ecotourism
Join marine biologist and Expedition Leader Daniela Muñiz as she explains how Baja’s recent transition from lesser-known travel outpost to ecotourism must-visit has turned local fishermen and rancheros into some of the peninsula’s fiercest wildlife protectors. Many are changing their ways of living, with some rancheros becoming mountain park rangers and fishermen searching for ways to preserve Baja’s migratory gray whales. Come away excited to explore and conserve this coastal paradise yourself on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure.
WEBINAR | Let’s Go Birding in Baja
You may know Baja for its marine wildlife -- like the mammoth gray whales we meet on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure -- but the peninsula’s islands, beaches, mangrove estuaries and deserts are also home to hundreds of bird species. Biologist and Expedition Leader Daniela Muñiz introduces us the birds of Baja and reveals some species adaptations that allow them to thrive in this unique coastal ecosystem.
WEBINAR | Mangroves: A World Between Land and Sea
Have you ever seen mangrove trees sprouting from saltwater and wondered how that’s possible? Join us for a fascinating peek into this unique ecosystem and learn why mangroves play a crucial role in a healthy coastal environment.
WEBINAR | Exploring Mexico’s Biodiversity, Part 3
Go beyond the tourist magnets of Tulum and Cancun to marvel at the incredible biodiversity in some of Mexico’s lesser-known states, from lush jungles and mangroves to gentle manatees and playful howler monkeys.
WEBINAR | Exploring Mexico’s Biodiversity, Part 2
Boasting everything from grinning axolotls and humpback whales to monarch butterflies and massive mangrove forests, Mexico is the fifth most megadiverse country in the world. Learn from a local what makes this part of the planet so unique.
WEBINAR | Chasing the Monarch Migration: My First Season Guiding in the Kingdom
Get a firsthand account of the mind-blowing monarch butterfly migration in Mexico from a Nat Hab Expedition Leader who just spent a season guiding this trip for the first time.
WEBINAR | Exploring Mexico’s Biodiversity: Part 1
Did you know that Mexico is the fifth-most megadiverse country in the world? Find out why it nurtures such a profusion of varied animals and plants, from endemic monkeys and jaguars to migratory monarch butterflies and gray whales.
WEBINAR | The Great Gray Whales of Baja: What to Know Before You Go
Ready to make giant friendships at sea on Mexico's Baja Peninsula? Find out all about our gray whale adventure, including our exclusive, eco-friendly whale camp at the edge of San Ignacio Lagoon.
WEBINAR | Discover a Mayan Time Capsule
Is a cenote a time capsule, an entrance to the Mayan underworld or a subterranean paradise? The answer: All of them! Learn about these sacred limestone sinkholes, from their formation to the unique species they house.
WEBINAR | Photographing Mexico’s Scaliest Subjects
Meet one of our newest Nat Hab Expedition Leaders and learn how the iguanas, turtles and other reptiles of Mexico have relit his passion for photography.
WEBINAR | Kingdom of Monarchs: Know Before You Go
What’s it like to witness Mexico’s amazing migration of millions of butterflies? Find out in today’s webinar.
WEBINAR | Inside Scoop on Our Costa Rica Adventure
Whether you’re already signed up for our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica adventure or just thinking about it, today’s webinar will answer all your burning questions about this fantastic itinerary.
WEBINAR | Mexico’s Most Marvelous Honeybee
Join one of our favorite butterfly experts to meet the marvelous Mayan bee of Mexico and learn why their honey is so highly regarded.
WEBINAR | Insects of Mexico: Cultural Icons and Delicious Delicacies
Do you know what entomophagy is? Discover this centuries-old Mexican culinary tradition of eating insects -- and learn why we should be paying much more attention to these tiny, yummy wonders.
WEBINAR | Bat Week—Part 2: Salud to the Bats!
Before you take a sip of your next margarita, raise your glass to bats! If no bats, no agave plant, and if no agave plant, no tequila. Learn about these intriguing connections in today’s bat-based webinar.
WEBINAR | Wildlife Wonders of the Galapagos
For a wildlife lover, there may be no nature destination on the planet as alluring as the Galapagos Islands, where unique animals show no fear of humans. Enjoy a firsthand report from a long-time Galapagos guide.
WEBINAR | Tips for Better Photography in the Jungle
Join professional photographer Richard de Gouveia to learn how to capture striking images in challenging jungle settings – a perfect primer for your upcoming trip to Rwanda, Madagascar, India or beyond.
WEBINAR | The Cutest Marsupials You’ve Never Heard Of
Kangaroos and koalas sure are charming. And they’re from Australia, right? Wrong! Join a zoologist to learn where marsupials came from and which ones you can see around the world, from Patagonia to the Rockies.
WEBINAR | Storytime with Bears: Part II
Expedition Leader Kristina Disney is back with more bear tales! Get comfy and listen to bear-based legends from around the world as we discover why these furry creatures hold so much cultural significance.
WEBINAR | Meet a South American Superhero, the Giant Armadillo
Ever heard of Xenarthra? This ancient Superorder of mammals boasts its own superhero: the giant armadillo! Learn how these rare prehistoric creatures play a crucial role in protecting other wildlife in South America’s Pantanal.
WEBINAR | South America’s Pantanal: A Wildlife Paradise on Fire
Learn why South America’s grandest wildlife realm—the vast tropical wetlands of the Pantanal—holds so much ecological importance, why fire threatens it, and how we can protect it, even from afar.
WEBINAR | Unknown and Unexplored Bolivia
Bolivia is less well known as a nature destination than neighboring Peru and Brazil, and Helder Brandao wants to fix that: Discover all Bolivia has to offer, from the Andes to the Amazon and beyond.
WEBINAR | Saving the Whales, One Humpback at a Time
Learn how Brazil’s Humpback Whale Project is helping to further knowledge and conservation of these gregarious cetaceans, and the important role sustainable tourism plays.
WEBINAR | Swimming with Mexico’s Whale Sharks
If you’ve ever wanted to swim with whale sharks, get the inside scoop on the best place to do it and learn about current conservation efforts to protect these majestic giant fish.
WEBINAR | Court vs. Joey: Conversion of a Monarch Skeptic
Monarch enthusiast Court Whelan, who guides Nat Hab butterfly trips to Mexico, talks with colleague Joey Sudmeier, a self-professed “skeptic” about butterfly tourism. Find out how Joey’s journey to the monarch kingdom changed his mind.
WEBINAR | Behind the Shots: An Inside Look at Galapagos Photography
When you take an accomplished African photographer to a far-away wildlife wonderland, you get a fresh collection of amazing photos—get the full scoop on how Richard de Gouveia achieved his favorite images.
WEBINAR | Using Ancient Knowledge to Restore Today’s Forests
Can ancient knowledge of land and trees help regenerate today’s ecosystems? Through this discussion of indigenous agricultural practices in tropical rain forest communities, discover how forests can be regenerated.
WEBINAR | Storytime with Bears
Grab a blanket, make yourself comfortable and listen to myths and legends about bears from around the world—discover how and why these creatures are so significant in many cultures.
WEBINAR | Galapagos Through the Eyes of an African Guide
Hear from South African Expedition Leader Richard de Gouveia about his journey to the Galapagos Islands, and find out what it’s like for a guide to be a traveler in a totally new part of the world!
WEBINAR | Snowbirds of the Sea
Humpbacks follow the sun every year, migrating from their polar feeding grounds to the tropics and back. Learn how they’re monitored along the way—even getting their own photo IDs.
WEBINAR | Brazilian Dinosaurs: 170 Million Years of Evolution
Did you know Brazil is a world leader in dinosaur fossil discovery? Learn from a noted expert why this South American country is such a rich resource for paleontologists worldwide.
WEBINAR | Torres del Paine: The Jewel of Patagonia
The sheer granite spires of Torres del Paine are mesmerizing to behold. Join a Nat Hab naturalist for a guided exploration of one of the most iconic destinations in South America.
WEBINAR | World Wetland Wonders
Marshes, swamps, bogs, fens, muskeg...did you know wetlands comprise some of Earth’s most important wildlife habitat? From the Pantanal to the Mekong Delta, learn about these complex ecosystems that provide refuge for many endangered species.
WEBINAR | A 400-Year Saga: Restoring the Southern Right Whale
The southern right whale, which winters and gives birth off Brazil’s southern coast, was hunted nearly to extinction by the 1970s—yet this species has bounced back since, in part through ecotourism. Hear the amazing story!
WEBINAR | Saving South America’s Rarest Dolphins
Meet Pedro Fruet, a globally recognized Brazilian oceanographer whose life work has been conserving the rare Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, and find out how strategies to engage local fishing communities may make the crucial difference.
WEBINAR | Conserving the Hidden Jaguars of the Amolar Mountains
Helder Brandao talks with Diego Viana, a veterinarian and jaguar researcher who’s spent the last 7 years leading groundbreaking research on jaguar conservation in this mountainous region of Brazil’s Pantanal.
WEBINAR | View from a Vet: Connecting Wildlife Health with Human Health
Meet Brazilian guest Joares May, Jr., a wild animal veterinarian whose research on jaguars and other apex predators holds major implications for the health of entire ecosystems—and the people who depend on them.
WEBINAR | To Fly or Not to Fly: Big Birds of Patagonia
Join South American avian expert Daniel Hagaman to meet some fascinating large birds of the Southern Andes and Patagonia coast, from flightless penguins and the enormous rhea to soaring condors and flamingos.
WEBINAR | Discover South America’s Maned Wolf
The little-known maned wolf is South America's largest canid. Described as a "fox on stilts," it’s neither a fox nor a wolf but a wholly unique species—join a Brazilian conservation expert to meet this intriguing animal.
WEBINAR | Brazil to Botswana: A Comparative Safari
You may know Botswana as an epic safari destination...but what about Brazil? Contrast the Okavango and the Pantanal as we explore two of the world’s greatest wetlands and wildlife meccas.
WEBINAR | New Mammals of the Neotropics
Did you know new mammals, even big ones, are being discovered in the neotropical regions of South and Central America? Learn about the latest discoveries and how scientists know they’ve found a new species.
WEBINAR | The Surprising World of Peccaries
Few species in Brazil’s neotropical rain forest are as important to a healthy habitat as the endangered white-lipped peccary. Meet a peccary conservation specialist and learn the fascinating reasons why.
WEBINAR | North to Alaska or South to Patagonia?
Alaska and Patagonia are two of the planet’s most acclaimed nature travel destinations for mountains, glaciers and oceans. How do you choose between them? Compare their landscapes and wildlife on this north/south overview.
WEBINAR | Viva Mexico! Celebrating Wildlife South of the Border
September 16 is Mexican Independence Day. What better way to celebrate Mexico’s national pride than with a focus on its most emblematic wildlife species? Meet whales, whale sharks, monarch butterflies, jaguars and more!
WEBINAR | Penguin Party! Meet the Southern Seabirds Everyone Loves
Penguins…They’re charming, whimsical and entertaining. They’re also amazing adapters to a changing planet. Join us for everything you ever wanted to know about these dapper denizens of Antarctica and the southern latitudes.
WEBINAR | Conserving Brazil’s Endangered Giant Otters
Brazil's Pantanal wetlands are prime habitat for the world's largest river otters, supporting the planet’s largest population of this endangered species. Join an otter conservation expert to find out what is being done to preserve these mammals.
WEBINAR | Saving Brazil's Hyacinth Macaws from Extinction
Join a leading expert on wild hyacinth macaws, the “king of parrots,” to find out how conservation biologists have brought this formerly endangered bird species back from the brink of extinction in the Brazilian Pantanal.
WEBINAR | Protecting Monarch Butterflies Year-Round
What can you do to protect North America's monarch butterflies and preserve their annual migration? Get tips from two naturalist guides about practical ways to contribute to conservation efforts in your own community.
WEBINAR | Let’s Go: Discover the Pantanal, Paradise for Birds | Part 2
Continue your exploration of the Pantanal's avian attractions with veteran Brazilian birding guide Fred Tavares as we meet more of the many bird species found in the world’s largest seasonal floodplain.
WEBINAR | Let’s Go: Discover Patagonia
Explore the natural landscapes and unique wildlife of this renowned wilderness at the bottom of South America, joining expert guides on a virtual journey through Patagonia's peaks, lakes and glaciers.
WEBINAR | Let’s Go: Exploring Patagonia Through Darwin’s Eyes
Find out how Charles Darwin’s expedition through Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego informed his theory of human evolution in this webinar with Expedition Leader Lilia Gonzalez.
WEBINAR | Exploring Alaska & the Galapagos with Lindblad Expeditions
Discover why this is the ideal summer to explore the wilds of Alaska and the Galapagos on a marine adventure with our partners at Lindblad Expeditions, and how your presence helps preserve these habitats.
WEBINAR | Let's Go: Discover the Pantanal, a Wetland Paradise for Birds
Join a virtual nature journey to the Brazilian Pantanal with Expedition Leaders Fred Tavares and Annie Van Dinther to learn all about the incredibly diverse birdlife that thrives in the world's largest wetland.
WEBINAR | Jaguars of the Pantanal & Pumas of Patagonia: Ecotourism Fostering Conservation
Join us for an uplifting success story: what happens when wildlife managers, local communities and conservationists come together to find ecotourism-based solutions that protect wild cats and mitigate conflict over livestock. Everyone wins!
WEBINAR | Let's Go: Discover the Gray Whales of Baja
One of the most heartwarming wildlife encounters on Earth is a marine meeting with Baja's friendly gray whales—Annie Van Dinther takes us to Mexico's Pacific whale lagoons for all the fun and wonder!
WEBINAR | Why Galapagos Tortoise Health Matters to Humans, Too
Ainoa Nieto, a wildlife veterinarian and lab manager at the Darwin Research Station, researches giant tortoise health and conservation—hear about her work in Galapagos and its implications for the wellbeing of the entire ecosystem.
WEBINAR | Discovering the Pantanal, South America’s Best Wildlife Destination
Brazil's Pantanal is South America's most wildlife-intensive nature realm (yep, even more so than the Amazon). Renowned Nat Hab guide Zapa takes you on a virtual safari through the world’s largest wetland.
WEBINAR | Let’s Go Again: The Galapagos Islands
There's just so much to the Galapagos that Annie and Andres are back to continue their fascinating "Let’s Go" overview of the world's most intriguing archipelago, filled with unique wildlife that's unafraid of humans!
WEBINAR | Giant Tortoises on the Move: Insights from Their Migration
Galapagos giant tortoises migrate?? And more curiously, why? Just recently, scientists have learned these massive reptiles move seasonally, though Charles Darwin noted it in 1835. Hear from a tortoise researcher about these fascinating findings!
WEBINAR | Let’s Go: Discover the Pantanal, Brazil’s “Wild Wet”
Home to stealthy jaguars, lurking caiman, maned wolf and 650 bird species, Brazil's Pantanal is South America's greatest wildlife mecca— explore this intricate ecosystem with top naturalist guide and jaguar researcher Helder Brandao.
WEBINAR | Journey into the Winter Forests of the Monarchs
Each winter, monarch butterflies migrate by the millions to a small tract of high-altitude forest in central Mexico. Join monarch expert Court Whelan to explore one of nature's most wondrous and mysterious phenomena.
WEBINAR | Let's Go! Discover Mexico’s Kingdom of the Monarchs
Take a virtual journey into the highland realm of the monarch, as we visit the butterfly sanctuaries in the fir forests of Mexico where millions of these gossamer-winged creatures congregate for the winter.
WEBINAR | Galapagos Photography: Capturing the Wildlife of the Enchanted Isles
Court Whelan introduces you to the entrancing wildlife photo opportunities that abound in the Galapagos Islands, where a cast of unique creatures from giant tortoises to blue-footed boobies displays no fear of humans.
WEBINAR | Let’s Go! Discover the Galapagos with Annie & Andres
Lying 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands have long enchanted visitors, with their unique species, amiable wildlife and storied history. Find out why this archipelago is so beloved by nature travelers!
WEBINAR | Maritime Crossroads: The Galapagos Marine Reserve
Created in 1998, the Galapagos Marine Reserve has had a dramatic impact on conserving migratory marine life in this richly biodiverse archipelago. But two decades later, species are struggling. Learn what's at stake as conservationists assess the reserve's future.
WEBINAR | Restoring Native Nature in the Galapagos Islands: Part 2
Galapagos Expedition Leader Josy and Island Restoration Specialist Paula take us to Floreana for a frontline look at how conservation biologists tackle the elimination of invaders in order to help native species prevail.
WEBINAR | Restoring Native Nature in the Galapagos Islands
Islands contain some of the greatest biodiversity on Earth—and they are among its most vulnerable ecosystems. Find out what's happening in the Galapagos and elsewhere to prevent extinctions by rooting out dangerous invaders.
WEBINAR | Photographing the Galapagos: Capture Mesmerizing Wildlife Images in the Enchanted Isles
Court Whelan showcases one of the world’s best destinations for wildlife photographers: the Galapagos is home to intriguing species found nowhere else, with no fear of humans! It's a naturalist's—and a photographer's—paradise.
WEBINAR | Oceans on the Move: How Marine Currents Foster Biodiversity
Join a Galapagos oceanographer to learn about a fascinating process: how contrasting currents come together to mix flora and fauna, giving rise to species found nowhere else.
WEBINAR | Land of the Incas: Into the Ancient Andes of Peru
Via fantastic photographs, personal stories and ancient legends, take a virtual journey with Peru native Renzo Zeppilli into the high Andes of the Cusco region, once the center of Inca civilization.
WEBINAR | The Origin of a New Species: Darwin’s Finches in the Galapagos
Darwin devised his theory of evolution while witnessing differences among finches isolated between islands in the Galapagos in 1835—and it's still occurring! Learn how scientists discovered a brand-new finch species that evolved in 2017.
WEBINAR | The Monarch Migration: Coming to a Town Near You!
Monarch expert Court Whelan reveals one of the world’s most astounding wildlife migrations that occurs each fall, as millions of monarch butterflies fly more than 3,000 miles to winter and mate in Mexico.
WEBINAR | Contrasting the Wild Wonders of Ecuador, Mexico & Peru
Join three of Nat Hab’s most popular naturalist guides on a virtual journey through their Latin American homelands as they comparing the diverse habitats, intriguing wildlife and unique features of these top nature travel destinations.
WEBINAR | The Heart of the Amazon
Meet Peruvian Expedition Leader Renzo Zeppilli and learn about why he is so captivated by the Amazon River and rain forest—his first and most enduring focus as a naturalist guide.
WEBINAR | Escaping Extinction: The Espanola Tortoise’s Long Road Home
Back from the brink! Fifteen giant tortoises have been released to their native Española in the Galapagos after nearly disappearing 50 years ago. Hear the riveting story of their conservation!
WEBINAR | The Heart of Mexico
From humpback whales to monarch butterflies, on glittering bays, wild beaches and forested mountaintops, get an inside look at the Heart of Mexico through the eyes of a Nat Hab Expedition Leader who calls it home.
WEBINAR | The Colorful Human History of the Galapagos Islands
From pirate haven to penal colony, learn about the fascinating history of the Galapagos Islands.
WEBINAR | Protecting Galapagos Seas & Why Ocean Conservation Matters
Join a Nat Hab Expedition Leader and WWF's VP of Ocean Conservation on a deep dive into the marine ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands.
WEBINAR | The Amazon: Fighting to Protect the World’s Largest Rain Forest
Join a WWF forest expert and Nat Hab Expedition Leader for an inside look at inspiring conservation work in the Amazon—the world's largest rain forest, which contains at least 10% of Earth's biodiversity!
WEBINAR | Mexico’s Gentle Giants: Protecting Humpback Whales
Learn about the lively humpbacks of Banderas Bay—40 tons and 50 feet long—from local naturalist guides who are passionate whale conservationists.
WEBINAR | 40 Tons of Delight: The Great Gray Whale, Part 3
Join Annie and Sofia for the final installment of this series as they follow the whales’ spring migration north to Alaska.
WEBINAR | 40 Tons of Delight: The Great Gray Whale, Part 2
Join Annie Van Dinther and Sofia Merino for the second installment of this three-part series, focusing on the gray whale's annual migration to Baja's warm, sheltered bays where they breed and birth their calves.
WEBINAR | 40 Tons of Delight: Meet the Great Gray Whale, Part 1
In the first of a 3-part series on whales, join naturalist guides Annie Van Dinther and Sofia Merino to hear stories of their encounters with these gentle giants.
WEBINAR | Families, Friends & Lovers: The Social Relationships of Cetaceans
Whether it’s humpbacks bubble-net feeding in Alaska or bottlenose dolphins by the dozens cavorting in Baja, these marine mammals are some of the most social creatures on Earth. Join us for a fascinating dive into their relational world.
WEBINAR | Understanding the Amazing Monarch Butterfly Migration
Join Court Whelan, Ph.D., Nat Hab's Director of Sustainability and Conservation Travel, for a webinar exploring one of the most miraculous phenomena in nature—the annual monarch butterfly migration.