Pete Read

Pete developed an interest in nature at a young age, spending a great deal of time investigating wildlife along the Thames River in London, Ontario. He completed his post-secondary studies at the University of Western Ontario where he earned an Honours BSc in Zoology and Ecology. He completed his teaching certificate as well and taught a variety of grade levels from primary to high school over 30 years. He has been a dedicated educator and expert interpretive naturalist for many years. Since retiring from teaching, Pete has been active as an environmental consultant doing field work throughout Ontario, when not leading trips for Quest.

Pete has travelled extensively in North America, and has visited each of the other continents. Besides going on adventures to South Africa, Madagascar, Uganda, Australia, Hong Kong and the UK, he served as a ship naturalist in Antarctica. He also has led Quest tours to Cuba, Georgian Bay, Iceland, Costa Rica, Borneo, India, Madagascar and various regions of Brazil. He is fond of disseminating his vast natural history knowledge to others, and prides himself in assisting the people on his trips to have their “best trip ever”. Each spring, you will find him guiding bird hikes at Point Pelee National Park, where he particularly enjoys encouraging new birders. Or you might find him taking part in many volunteer projects for his local naturalist group (London Nature) and other organizations.

What travellers say about Pete:
“Pete Read is a very kind person with a wicked sense of humour. Blended with his knowledge, it’s a mix which is hard to beat.” - Jill M.

"Pete is a very knowledgeable guide - as good as any I know in the USA - great field ornithologist." - Tom F.

"Pete had obviously done a LOT of research in preparation for the trip. He was very generous sharing his knowledge. There was a good mix of birds and plants and history on the trip. Pete was well organized but flexible as necessary." - Dale L.