I’m Mike Marshall, the founder of FeatherQuest. I’ve spent years birding across the western United States, combining photography, exploration, and storytelling into a single, repeatable adventure.
FeatherQuest grew out of a simple idea: birding is more meaningful when it feels like a quest. Noticing patterns, chasing lifers, and sharing stories turns field guides and checklists into something memorable.
My background blends technology and creativity. By day I work in software and systems, and by instinct I’m always looking for better ways to design experiences that scale without losing their human feel.
I created FeatherQuest to make birding more approachable—whether you’re photographing rare species, watching backyard birds with family, or learning to slow down and notice what’s around you.
If you’re new to FeatherQuest, start with the Birding Guides for practical, field-tested help. The ongoing stories live in the Quests, and the original printed experience is FeatherQuest: Utah — Season One.
Long term, FeatherQuest is growing into a living world—new regional editions, a Junior edition for families, and a community built around curiosity, respect for nature, and shared discovery.