The idea behind Birds of the World was based on the simple belief that an image is capable of stirring something that no statistic ever can. Its founder, Manuel Quiroga (an engineer, Master of Science degree holder, wildlife photographer, PhD candidate, and environmental educator), spent 25 years working in international cooperation on issues concerning the environment, water, and climate change. Because of this experience, he decided to put his skills and vision to use for a larger purpose: reconnecting people with nature through photography and education.

A lens that travels the world
Over the years he has collected thousands of photographs of birds from several continents and since 2022 his pictures have been included in thematic calendars published in Timor-Leste, Bolivia, Germany and Australia. In 2025 special editions featuring the Birds of Paradise and the Birds of Papua New Guinea were released, and in 2026 the collection entered Asia with the publication of Birds of Japan and Birds of Vietnam. His work has also won international awards in Australia, Belgium, Bolivia and Timor-Leste.

Educating to conserve
For Manuel, photography is the starting point, not the end. Through talks and workshops titled "Nuestros Amigos Silvestres" (Our Wild Friends), he has introduced the concept of biodiversity into classrooms and communities in Bolivia, Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea. From 2019 to 2026, he furthered this effort by organizing a series of training sessions on birds and biodiversity awareness for children and young people. These training sessions use a Training of Trainers (ToT) method so each participant can pass on what they learned to others.

Words as a bridge
He wrote several articles in local newspapers in 2025 and 2026 on birds, ecosystems, and sustainability while serving as an environmental columnist for the Post-Courier, aiming to turn scientific information into stories that inform, move, and inspire action.

More than a store
'Birds of the World' declares its aims: each photograph offers an aesthetic experience and encourages you to look closely, feel, and care. By bringing one of these pictures into your home, you join in with that message.

Nature has no need for admirers; it needs allies instead.