Our Guides

Satyan Mepayur
Satyan MepayurRenowned in Kerala as the co-author of the book " Shore Birds of Kerala", is an expert on birds of South India & specialises as a birding tour leader for the whole of South India. His specialty is his expertise in identifying most bird calls without sighting. He has published papers on birds in the prestigious BNHS journal and is currently working on a Malayalam field guide of Birds in Kerala. In his spare time he also collaborates with the leading Malayalam daily “Mathrubhoomi” in nature education especially birding among the youth and has been conducting ongoing bird monitoring programme in Kerala conducted by Malabar Natural History Society. His main areas of interest are Bird photography and Wildlife & nature painting

.“….We can’t thank you enough for the wonderful arrangements you made for us for our recent tip. The trip went of without a hitch – the itinerary was great, the accommodations were very good but what was especially wonderful was our guide Satyan – outstanding in his capabilities and a joy to travel with. We felt that we not only saw more birds & wildlife than we expected but a new view into the culture and customs of India. We certainly will recommend Kalypso Adventures to our friends and you may certainly use our names as references….” Bill & Penny Mulligan 

Sudheesh
Sudheesh is a leading birding guide. Born & brought up near the lowland forests at Thattekkad, From an early age, he was committed to the preservation of the forests near his home and gradually developed an abiding interest in birds and birding. Very soon he was taking his guests into the forests and thus gained first hand experience of what the international birder's requirements were. He spends most of his spare time going through the vast areas of South India in search of those reclusive birds. He now leads numerous groups of birders from across the globe. Sudheesh lives at Thattekkad with his parents. 

"...Sudeesh's job was outstanding. He is highly professional and passionate about his job. He went really out of his way to find birds for us. And he managed to balance, as I had requested, the diversity and quantity of the birds observed (more than 140) and the time needed by me to get photographs, as good as possible, of the highest number of species (more than eighty lifers photographed, and many more with improved photographs). The fact that we saw and I could photograph five owls and the Sri Lankan Frogmouth (three individuals of this species) is just one sample of a job very well done..." Dr. Francisco Piedrahita Plata, President ICESI University, Colombia. 

Peter Augustine
Peter is a self-taught birder, who picked up the elements of birding from the numerous birders from all over the globe whom he has driven around. With a keen sense of hearing, hard work & an abiding passion for bird watching, Peter is an invaluable asset and guide. He is also knowledgeable about the cultural aspects of the South Indian states, thus making him an invaluable asset to those seeking a birding, wildlife and culture tour of the peninsula.

“..Peter was very pleasant and his knowledge of the birds and areas was quite good. My expectations were met quite well. We saw almost all of the endemics…” Howard Winer, USA

Peter has so many good qualities, his drive to give his clients the best experience is tremendous. He is absolutely reliable, punctual, friendly and protective. He has a good knowledge of birds in Kerala. He is a superb all round guide an excellent ambassador for his company and a delight to be with..." Keith Walker, UK

 Joji
Jogi, who has been a birding guide for a decade now, is a prime example of how one’s passion can turn into a career. Joji developed a passion for birding after he spent quite a few spells as a driver for birding tours and has over time gained experience as a dependable birding guide. As a person he is dedicated, sincere and humble and is known for going out of his way to make things happen. This gentle giant is may be quiet, but his skill speaks for itself.

"....Sincere thanks from all participants on our trip to South India. We are very grateful for the service provided by you, our guide/driver Joji and other staff members of Kalypso. Great selection of hotels, great people and nice extra services at no charge. Thanks a lot!...." Jan Ejlsted

:... Joji was a pleasure to be with for that period. Nothing ever seemed to be too much for him and he went out of his way to make sure that we had everything we needed. During the tour Joji was able to show me many birds that I would not have found myself....." Bob Philpot

Abid
Abid is a feather in our cap, his skill as a birder is complemented by his eye for detail, his knack for getting to the bottom of things. He takes pride in showcasing biodiversity of the Western Ghats, its wildlife and bird life. An able coordinator, the tours with Abid go off without a hitch and he is has an inherent talent to understand what his guests need and deliver on the same.

"...We would like to say how delighted we were of our experience in the hills and of our guide Abid. He always explained the plan of the day clearly, pointed out interesting features and wild life to us, and adapted to our needs. Thank you so much for your brilliant organisation. ..." Liz Huelin

"...We would like to make special mention of Abid, our companion and guide during the first two weeks of our trip. Always attentive but never intrusive, he was meticulous, knowledgeable and blessed with a good sense of humour. He went out of his way to ensure a seamless progression through our itinerary..." Morton Debra.

Anoop

 Anoop Jacob started his career in the environs of the birder’s paradise – Thattekad, and he found himself drawn to birding . This young, energetic and personable chap is a keen learner, and this facet of his personality has enabled Anoop to gain a wealth of experience as a naturalist, which goes beyond his years. Anoop who has been a briding guide since 2012, is known for making his guests feel comfortable and he is a great asset to be with, in the field.

"...We really do have to congratulate you on the incredibly efficient manner in which you handled our trip and to pla both excellent guide and travelling companion. Indeed, young Anoop has an amazing talent in both spotting birds and hearing even the faintest call and repeatedly outshone many of the local guides. This is a rare talent indeed...." Paul Lister