Robert Tougias was born and raised in a small suburban town outside of Springfield, Massachusetts, where he became fascinated with his natural surroundings at a very young age. He spent countless hours exploring vacant lots, woodland streams, and hidden ponds. His parents encouraged his interest in nature. He began watching birds by second grade and was given his first field guide and bird feeder a year later.

Ever since he was a young boy, he always knew he wanted to do something with his artistic ability. After watching a film in elementary school about an author who worked from an office at his farm, he thought writing might be an interesting career. Although he has had his artwork in small juried shows, won a few awards, and even illustrated a book, it’s the writing that has gotten the most time. He received his education in natural resources at the University of Massachusetts and has worked for the Massachusetts Audubon Society and the US Department of Agriculture. Robert is the author of Birding Western Massachusetts and Quest for the Eastern Cougar. His column “Bird’s Eye View” has appeared in several newspapers throughout the Northeast.

These days, when not writing or researching a book, he finds enjoyment in his backyard, gardening or otherwise puttering about. On days when his obligations are met and he's free to travel, he enjoys birding at a family cabin in Vermont or exploring old logging roads in northwestern Maine while trout fishing. Robert lives in southeastern Connecticut.

Books by Robert Tougias