Pierre Richard

Pierre Richard grew up in Quebec City and has been an avid naturalist since his teens.  He has vacationed in the Charlevoix region since childhood.  It is in that area that he developed a keen interest in marine life and, in particular whales, seals and seabirds.   

Richard was one of the first naturalists on board St. Lawrence whale-watching cruises in the 1970s.  For the last thirty years, he was employed as a marine biologist and scientist at Fisheries and Oceans Canada, during which time he conducted field research on beluga whales, narwhals and walrus.  He has authored many scientific publications and three nature guides on marine mammals of eastern Canada and Nunavut.  Recently retired from Fisheries and Oceans, Pierre can now spend more time as a nature guide and naturalist interpreter, his first love.  Since 2005, he has been a regular leader on Arctic expeditions.   An outdoor enthusiast on his spare time, Pierre enjoys bird-watching wherever he goes and has pursued that passion across Canada, in several states of the US and Mexico, and Costa Rica.  

Read Pierre's blog post about the function of a narwhal's tusk.

Testimonials:

"His style of leading the group and enthusiasm was great. He went above and beyond finding us birds.  Having him ready to translate where needed made me feel very comfortable." - Quebec tour 2015

"Excellent. Pierre is a fun-loving person. He made sure everyone was comfortable and having a good time. Found the Sunbittern for us. Thanks, Pierre!" Anon 2014

"Excellent. Very knowledgeable of the area and wildlife. Willing to adjust to individual interests and situations. Enthusiasm that was contageous. Very patient and understanding of our idiosyncratic ways!" C.P. 2013

"Excellent. Pierre loves Quebec as much as he loves birds and mammals. Love to teach and explain biology as much as history. Pierre MADE the tour in every aspect with his knowledge and enthusiasm." anon 2013

"Excellent. He provided fantastic opportunities to see birds and whales; gave superb information on all aspects of the trip (history, geography, social history, etc as well as, of course, the marine mammals and birds); was sociable, friendly to all, sensitive to individual needs, enthusiastic, approachable ... and gave over and above the expected level of care to us all. His picnics were outstanding! I would recommend him without reservation." J.S. 2013