Christian Cooper by National Geographic, Jon Kroll
Christian Cooper, Avian Affair 2025 Keynote Speaker
Christian Cooper is an Emmy Award-winning host and the NY Times bestselling author of Better Living Through Birding. Known for his work as the host of National Geographic's Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper, he brings his lifelong passion for birding and environmental advocacy to a wide audience. A former president of the Harvard Ornithological Club and current vice president of the New York City Bird Alliance, Christian champions safe, accessible green spaces and engages underserved communities in the joys of birdwatching.
As a speaker, Christian captivates audiences with his unique blend of passion for nature, activism, and storytelling. He has spoken at prestigious institutions like the 92nd Street Y, Drexel University, and Swarthmore College, as well as major events such as The Biggest Week in American Birding Festival. He was also one of the few non-scientists to give the keynote speech to the annual meeting of the American Ornithological Society, the governing body for scientists in the field of bird study. Additionally, he has delivered impactful talks at various corporate events, where his ability to connect environmental issues with corporate social responsibility resonates deeply with attendees.
Christian is also a passionate comic book fan, blending his love for storytelling with his advocacy work. His graphic short story “It’s a Bird” from DC Comics explores the intersection of racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmentalism. This project reflects his belief in the power of storytelling to drive progress and spark change, much like his broader work. Christian’s debut memoir, Better Living Through Birding, encourages readers to find solace and meaning in nature, while his children’s book The Urban Owls introduces young minds to the wonders of wildlife in urban settings. Christian’s speaking engagements offer a powerful message of inclusion, progress, and the importance of protecting both the environment and each other.
