Phil (he/him) spent his childhood in Staten Island, NY, where he was fascinated with the natural world, especially the birds that passed through his suburban backyard. In and after undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, he pursued a career in natural resource management, initially in urban settings. In 2004, he took to the wilder woodlands of New Hampshire, realizing a lifelong dream, and ultimately becoming NH Audubon’s Director of Land Management.
In 2006, he wandered up Pack Monadnock Mountain to seek out a Golden Eagle – and met his future wife, Julie. Phil moved to the Monadnock Region the following year, studying Conservation Biology at Antioch University New England while continuing to work for NH Audubon. Soon afterward, he added the role of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory Coordinator to his job responsibilities, work he still does as the Harris Center’s Director of Bird Conservation.
After a short stint living in the heart of the SuperSanctuary as the caretakers at Willard Pond, Phil and Julie moved to Hancock, where they enjoy exploring the outdoors with their two young children, Laurel and Alden. In addition to immersing himself in all things birds, Phil enjoys leading field trips, tending a small peach orchard, enjoying craft beer, and making (and eating) pizza with friends.
