Carlos Sanchez • Following Birds to the Heart of Brazil • 7:30 pm • 9/13/16

In 2013, Carlos Sanchez quit his office job in the United States and traveled to the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso to follow his passion of being a birding guide. Even in a country well known for its staggering biodiversity, the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso is exceptional. Located in the heart of South America, it encompasses three major biomes (Pantanal, Cerrado, and Amazonia) that together make this one of the most biologically rich regions in all of Brazil. With its astonishing list of nearly 600 bird species, there are few better ways to explore the Amazonian biome than to become a birding guide at the famous Cristalino Lodge. Carlos Sanchez shares his knowledge of this vast eco-region, gained as a birding guide at this renowned lodge, as well as his personal experiences on this life-changing journey. Sanchez currently sits on the board of the Tropical Audubon Society, is a regular contributor to the birding blog 10,000 Birds, and leads local tours through his company, EcoAvian Tours.