"Our group of Oregon birders were so fortunate to have Steve Dougill as our guide during our 2022 tour of Veracruz and it’s River of Raptors.  Steve’s passion for birds was manifested as an infectious enthusiasm and in his joy getting us on birds in bins and scope as quickly as possible.  Always attuned to our needs and wants, Steve’s fluency in Spanish added to our understanding and appreciation of the local culture.  Don’t let the name of his tours fool you, Steve has worked as a professional avian conservationist, has birded the world and freely shares his knowledge.  If you bird with Steve you’ll make a good friend but most of all,prepare to have fun!"  David Vick.  Terrebonne, OR

 

"A Veracruz trip with Steve felt so good as he  supported the local communities with funds, we stayed in local community lodging close to the birds and enjoyed meeting local birders. His high energy leadership got us the birds. The huge flocks of raptors and songbirds migrating was a much welcomed high point in my several decades of birding trips."  Judy Meredith.  Bend, OR

 

"Main highlight of my birding trip with Steve to the Mexican State of Veracruz was the world’s largest raptor migration known as the River of Raptors. Truly quite a spectacle to witness - once a year waves of millions of raptors migrate south through the region taking advantage of its topographic features with favorable air currents." Max Luong: Las Vegas, NV

 

"My first birdwatching trip ever was to see the River of Raptors in Veracruz during migration in 2023. It was an experience I’ll never forget! Our guides, Steve & Kash made it even better with their deep avian knowledge, enthusiasm and friendly, relaxed attitude. Every moment was a new insight of the people, their culture, varied landscapes and the rich species diversity of the region. If you love birds, Veracruz will steal your heart!"  Sonya Wilson.  Las Vegas, Nevada

 

“Steve’s knowledge and familiarity with the birds in every setting made for a very rewarding trip. He has a gift for helping to get on a bird, and his enthusiasm is infectious.”  Cherry Williams. Bend, Oregon

“Without any hesitation, I can say the 2025 Northeast India Trip with Steve Dougill ranks at the top of all my birding adventures. This journey offered more than just birding; it was an immersive exploration into a region filled with breathtaking scenery and extraordinary wildlife.  Each day brought new wonders, and we were privileged to witness places that very few travelers have ever seen.  Steve’s strong relationships with fellow guides throughout India ensured that our itinerary was both safe and exciting. Thanks to his expertise and connections, the trip was meticulously planned and delivered an unforgettable experience—a true trip of a lifetime.” Pat Webber.  Twin Falls,Idaho

 

"Birding in northeast India with Steve was phenomenal! Each birding stop was thoughtfully planned to maximize the diversity of habitats and birds we could see. The food and lodging were excellent - comfortable, authentic and supportive of the local community. Steve's endless energy, enthusiasm and knowledge are unbeatable and made the trip unforgettable. I'd join one of Steve's trips again any time!" Jac Tolchen.  Santa Cruz, CA

 

"Looking for a great birding experience in India? I highly recommend Steve and Bird Idiot tours! Our N-S India tour was phenomenal, well organized, and absolutely teeming with birds.  Looking forward to my third Bird Idiot tour this January." Diedra Asbjorn, Massachusetts

 

"Due to its dramatic geography, multifaceted cultures, inaccessibility, and rich birdlife, I had been interested in Northeast India for many years; when I learned of the trip Steve was planning, I immediately jumped on the opportunity. If anything, the experience exceeded my expectations. Through meticulous planning and connections with local organizers, we were able to visit places far off the beaten tourist paths; in some places we were among the first ever Western visitors. By using expert local guides, using lovely home-stays and occasionally stopping at markets and restaurants along the route, we met wonderful people, adding to the rich overall experience. As for the birding, it was just superb. It was simply one of the best bird tours I have ever taken" Magnus Persmark, Oregon

 

"Steve’s trip to Nepal was carefully planned in collaboration with his local friends and guides, Dheeraj and Santa to ensure the best chance at seeing Nepal’s stunning wildlife and bird life with a special focus on seeing tigers. The guides were world class, as were the wildlife viewing experiences. Everyone we met in Nepal was like family. I have traveled in Africa and Latin America. This was the safest I have ever felt in another country, and my ten year old son had the trip of a lifetime. In Bardia, we saw 3 tigers; thanks to our extraordinary guides and driver. In Chitwan, Steve and our guides helped us to see rare birds and sloth bear, and showed us how to track and find tigers. We watched sunsets, rhinos walking through towns, birds and butterlfies from dawn to dusk, and were never bored. The experience was deeply authentic, stopping in local villages, eating at a family home after the Vulture cafe, staying in locally owned lodges that were comfortable and charming, and wandering around the streets in Kathmandu and interacting with local shop owners and restaurateers. Steve made a special point to go around the shops to look for a singing bowl with my son and he raved about it. We fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the wildlife, and wished we could spend months there. I would highly recommend this trip; for the birding, wildlife watching, and the incredible people of Nepal." Stefanie Kranz. Clarkston, Washington

 

"Traveling to India with Steve and a small group was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken. As a birding trip it would be hard to beat with 454 species in just under three weeks. But beyond the birds it was an excellent trip in every way. Steve did a fantastic job of planning the route, stops along the way, the accommodations, the local guides, and the drivers. It was great to have Guarav, Steve’s good friend and our “fixer” running point and making sure everything went as planned. We were comfortable in every way and well prepared by Steve’s excellent pre-trip communications. He has a great eye for birds so if they were there, we saw them. Steve is a great guy and a lot of fun to travel with. I wouldn’t hesitate to go with him again anywhere!" Nancy Barnhard. Virginia

 

"Bird Idiot Tours delivers an unforgettable birding experience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder. We observed close to 500 species during our tour of North and South India, along with an incredible variety of local wildlife. You’re in great hands with Steve, who ensures delicious food, safe drivers and carefully selected local guides for a truly memorable experience."  Preeti Schatzman.  Las Vegas, Nevada

 

"My trip with Steve to Northeast India was the trip of a lifetime. Steve had planned out everything so well, including some great accommodations. We had access to some fantastic birding locations and were accompanied by Dombe for the entirety of our trip, a truly amazing local guide. The food was incredible and plentiful throughout. Logistics were easy. And my first trip to India resulted in 400 new birds on my life list and an unforgettable tiger encounter. Definitely looking forward to my next trip with Bird Idiot Tours."  Justin Streit.  Henderson, Nevada