About your guides
Each year, the Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival brings together a passionate team of guides, biologists, and volunteers to share their expertise.
These dedicated birders will accompany you as you explore the world of boreal birds in some of the most beautiful birding sites in Québec. Whether you’re searching for a rare species, a new lifer, or simply looking to deepen your knowledge of birds, they’re here to guide you!
Their knowledge of the Côte-Nord region, their professional backgrounds, and their passion for birds enrich every outing and activity. Thanks to them, each edition of the Festival becomes an unforgettable experience — scientific, sensory, and deeply human.
Jan Rieck
I first became interested in birds and ornithology on the island of Helgoland, a true migratory bird “trap” located in northern Germany. Working as a tour guide allowed me to discover many species, and it was the local ornithologists who introduced me to bird banding, seabird watching, and much more.
Although I later became an oceanographer, my arrival in Québec in 2020 reignited that passion. Discovering so many new species pushed me to travel across the province in search of memorable sightings.
That’s how I discovered the Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival, and after my very first cruise, I knew I’d come back as often as possible.
Johanna Boucher
I’ve been an ornithologist for eight years now, and I’ve been observing birds since the age of twelve — a passion that continues to grow.
During my first bird banding season in 2024, I began engaging with the public and realized that sharing what fascinates me makes this passion even more meaningful.
That’s why, this fall, I’m thrilled to introduce nature lovers to the incredible world of birds and their amazing migration.
Thierry Grandmont
A nature lover since childhood and passionate about ornithology since my teenage years, I’ll be taking part in my 11th edition of the Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival this year.
If there’s one thing I’m even more passionate about than birds, it’s sharing this fascinating world with others — whether through guided outings in the field or in the ornithology courses I teach at Université Laval.
Alexandre Ethier
Trained as a biologist with a specialization in avian wildlife, I’ve been actively birding across Québec for several years.
I’ve had the opportunity to lead numerous birdwatching outings for various organizations, including the OOT, and to teach ornithology as part of a course at UQAR.
I always strive to tailor my outings to different levels of experience, so that everyone can enjoy and learn at their own pace.
I look forward to sharing this passion with you!
Charles Samoisette-Pilon
Bioecology technician, it was my passion for ornithology that led me to pursue studies in this field. My journey has allowed me to observe birdlife across all corners of our beautiful province. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, sharing what I know about Quebec’s birds is a true source of motivation for me.
I’ve been guiding for the Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival for several years now. You may have already seen me at the Tadoussac Dunes or on a pelagic bird-watching cruise.
Looking forward to meeting you!
Jessé Roy-Drainville
At the age of 8, I fell into the birding pot and never really came out. I hold a diploma in Bioecology from CEGEP and a degree in Biology from UQAR. I spend my spring and fall seasons counting migratory birds for the Tadoussac and Rimouski bird observatories.
When I’m not on a lookout, I’m banding birds or conducting point counts across Québec for breeding birds — either out in the field or by listening to recordings. As a result, I’ve learned to easily recognize Québec’s birds, both by sight and by sound.
It’s a real pleasure for me to share this passion with you. Grab your binoculars and follow me!
Alexandre Lajeunesse
A passionate biologist and ornithologist, I am guiding for a third year at the Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival. With several years of experience both at sea and on land, I love sharing my passion for birds through dynamic and accessible outings.
My goal: to offer each group a unique experience, rich in discovery and wonder.