A KINDLY LOOKING MAN WITH A BEARD stands behind the counter of a wild bird specialty store in Hamden, Conn.

Mild mannered with a glint of mischief in his eyes, he appears to be the quintessential bird store owner. But this man has a double life.

Many along the East Coast know him as the owner of Fat Robin, but few know his other side. It’s more than likely that you have seen evidence of it in WildBird Magazine, National Geographic, Birder’s World, and Time magazine.

Jim may appear to be a mild-mannered bird store owner, but he is also one when the chance allows time away from the store.

A modest area across from the cash register of his store showcases his photography. Prints and blank note cards are offered for sale but they do not quite tell the full story of his extensive photo library.