Meet Erik Jansen

Erik’s passion for birdwatching began in his childhood in the Netherlands and has since taken him across the globe. He has been actively involved with Batumi Raptor Count since 2019, where he monitors raptor migration in the Caucasus, coordinates counts, and co-authors research on spring migration patterns in Georgia. His diverse experience includes working as a ranger at an RSPB reserve in the UK, contributing to a Macqueen’s Bustard project on the Kazakh steppes, and conducting breeding bird surveys in the Dutch dunes. Erik is always eager to share his extensive knowledge with fellow enthusiasts and can engage in endless conversations about birds.

In addition to his work, Erik has birded in various East and Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, and Taiwan. When not birdwatching, he enjoys studying languages, exploring new cuisines, and learning about the broader world of fauna and flora.

1. How did you become interested in birding?

My father is a birdwatcher, so you could say I was born with a little pair of binoculars glued to my hands.

2. ⁠How many years have you been leading tours?

Being a tour leader is the newest addition to my resume. I have guided bird walks in the UK, and I have coordinated a raptor migration count where I taught people about raptors.

3. ⁠What has been your most memorable wildlife or birding experience?

Witnessing the sheer number of raptors passing through Batumi, Georgia, on their southern migration. I saw 100,000 honey-buzzards in just one morning — it’s hard to imagine the sight unless you’ve seen it with your own eyes.

4. ⁠Which destinations are on your travel wishlist?

Definitely more of Southeast Asia, after having birded in Thailand and on several Indonesian islands. Birding in the jungle is hard, but so rewarding. I would also love to spend a year in South America to experience life and birds there.

5. ⁠What is your favorite bird family or species and why?

Probably thrushes. Often beautifully-plumaged and elusive, found almost everywhere in the world, they always make me happy. Back home in the Netherlands, the autumn migration of redwings and fieldfares, when they pass by in big numbers, never fails to amaze me.

6. ⁠What gear do you use for birding and photography?

I use Swarovski’s NL Pure 10×42 binoculars as well as their ATX 25-60×85 telescope. I am relatively new to bird photography, and for now I use a Sony RX10 IV, which balances light weight and comfort with good quality photos.

Photo Gallery

“There is an unreasonable joy to be had from the observation of small birds going about their bright, oblivious business”

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