Steve Martin

Steve Martin is an internationally acclaimed animal trainer and the president and CEO of Natural Encounters Inc. (NEI), which provides expertise in animal training, staff training, educational program production and presentation, exhibit design, and enrichment to facilities worldwide.

NEI brings together leading cross-disciplinary behaviour management training and programme development professionals to serve a growing demand for establishing behaviour management programmes across the zoological community.

In addition, Martin is president of Natural Encounters Conservation Fund, Inc., which is dedicated to raising funds to support in situ conservation initiatives. The fund has raised and donated more than $1.1 million to date.

A master falconer for over 40 years and a parrot trainer for more than 45, Martin has championed the art of training birds and animals through positive reinforcement. He has worked with hundreds of species of birds and mammals.

Martin began his professional animal training career when he established the first free-flight bird show at the San Diego Wild Animal Park in 1976. The show, which showcased the birds' natural behaviours, garnered international acclaim for its combination of entertainment and conservation messaging.

In 1984, he began teaching animal keepers the art and science of behaviour change to enhance the husbandry, enrichment, and behavioural management of exhibit animals.

Martin is a trustee of the World Parrot Trust and a founding member of the International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators (IAATE).

“I am pleased to nominate Steve Martin, President of Natural Encounters Inc., for his remarkable influence in animal training and education over the years,” said one person who nominated Martin.

“As a pioneer in the field, Steve has consistently set the standard for innovative animal training techniques that prioritize both the welfare of the animals and the education of the public. His dedication to creating meaningful guest experiences has transformed how visitors interact with wildlife, fostering a deeper appreciation for conservation.”