Joshua Olszewski
Bird Tour Leader for Birding Ecotours
Josh grew up in suburban Johannesburg, where his birding path started at a very young age. His deep interest in the world of birds began at three years of age, and was birthed from the many field guides and bird books he read as a child. During this time, Josh thoroughly birded the wider Gauteng region which soon extended to the rest of South Africa as he got older. Having birded the country extensively for the last 10 years, he has recently broadened his reach to countries like Argentina, Israel and Norway.
Knowing that he wanted a career in birding from an early age, Josh’s passion for birds and birding led him to pursue bird guiding and to complete a bird guide specialist course. His involvement in conservation work through BirdLife South Africa even led to him being awarded the Birdlife South Africa Owlet award in 2017. His interest in nature also extends far beyond birding, encompassing other wildlife such as mammals, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and dragonflies.
With a bright demeanor, Josh loves sharing his interest in birds with others and creating memorable experiences for people in the natural world.
Join Joshua Olszewski on the following upcoming tours:
Read Joshua Olszewski’s feedback from clients:
Josh knew the locations well and we explored each thoroughly. He was well acquainted with the birds and where to find them, and explained habits, identification etc. Enjoyable and relaxed chat in the vehicle between sites.
Richard - on Josh and Cape birding tours
I used Josh for a one-day trip to the Cape Town west coast area. Josh is an extremely knowledgeable, professional guide. His easy-going personality made the day extremely enjoyable. Josh is an eBirder and it is obvious that the skills he uses to review bird reports helps in the identification of the local birds. Great job!
John - On Josh and Cape Birding Tours
Joshua was incredibly knowledgeable about the birds down to the finest scientific facts.
Peter - On Joshua
Joshua is an outstanding guide in terms of knowledge, sharing information, making certain people on the trip see the birds and overall very pleasant and fun to be with.
He is incredibly knowledgeable, goes out of his way to make certain all members of the group see the bird and works hard to make certain target birds are seen each day out in the field. He spends the entire day working with the group and teaching us new things both about birds, South Africa and other things we are seeing.
Lynne - On Joshua
Highlights: The number of species seen (455) and the variety of habitats visited. The Sugarbird and Rockjumper, being representatives of families new to us. Puff Adder.
Josh, as a birding guide, was excellent. His knowledge and fieldcraft were outstanding and the trip report is thorough
Steven and Jacqueline - On Joshua & Subtropical South Africa