Auke-Florian Hiemstra

About Auke-Florian Hiemstra

Biologist and author Auke-Florian Hiemstra is available for keynotes, lectures, and theater classes on sustainability, biodiversity, and (urban) nature. He investigates how animals live in the age of humans and shares his findings with wonder, humor, and enthusiasm. As a TV biologist, Auke-Florian frequently interacts with the media, interprets nature news, presents children’s programs, and joins talk shows.

In his lectures, he takes the audience into the unexpected world of urban nature. Many birds now build their nests from plastic and other litter. Auke-Florian researches these modern constructions at Naturalis Biodiversity Center, and his discoveries often make headlines around the world, from National Geographic and The Guardian to BBC and CNN. They tell the story of humanity’s impact, but also about the adaptability and creativity of nature. His most bizarre discovery, ‘bird nests made from anti-bird spikes’ (yes, you read that right), even earned him a full page in The New York Times! His stories are funny and thought-provoking, encouraging you to see the city with new eyes! What can we learn from birds about sustainability, perseverance, and adaptability?

After this story, you will never walk through the city the same way again!

Auke-Florian’s performances are energetic and interactive. The animals that play a central role in his stories travel with him in preserved form: a mini-exhibition that brings every stage to life. This way, the audience truly comes face to face with urban nature. Auke-Florian’s lectures are tailored, featuring local examples, and are inspiring for a wide audience. Stories about sustainability, without leaving you feeling gloomy, but rather hopeful!

He also moderates events focused on science, sustainability, or nature. He presented the program in the science tent at Lowlands and interviewed Jane Goodall at De Balie.

Auke-Florian’s book on urban nature made the bestseller list, was recommended by AD as ‘the best book of Children’s Book Week,’ and as Jochem Myjer reveals on the back cover: “I am a fan!” He has repeatedly appeared in the prestigious Trouw Sustainable Top 100, won the NWO Communication Initiative Award, and produced several episodes of Klokhuis. Auke-Florian is also an ambassador for the Jane Goodall Institute and is part of Jane’s Circle of Hope, a small group of individuals who follow in Jane Goodall’s footsteps to continue her message of hope and inspire others to commit to humanity, animals, and nature.

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