Austin Stevens

Austin Stevens is a South African-born naturalist, herpetologist, wildlife photographer, filmmaker, author, and television presenter best known for bringing audiences face-to-face with some of the world’s most formidable wildlife. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, Stevens developed a fascination with snakes as a child and went on to build a career centered on reptiles, wildlife conservation, photography, and adventure.

Stevens first worked professionally with reptiles at snake and animal parks before expanding into wildlife photography, writing, and documentary filmmaking. His photography became an integral part of his career, and he has published more than 150 wildlife articles while also working behind the camera on nature documentaries. Early film projects included The Nature of the Snake and Dragons of the Namib, the latter of which was acquired by National Geographic.

He became internationally recognized through television programs including Austin Stevens: Snakemaster, Austin Stevens Most Dangerous, and Austin Stevens Adventures. His programs, shown by networks including Animal Planet, Discovery, National Geographic, and Channel 5 in the UK, followed Stevens around the world as he searched for and photographed snakes, reptiles, and other dangerous or elusive wildlife. His approach combined natural-history education with expedition-style filmmaking and close-up wildlife photography.

One of the defining stories of Stevens’ early career was an endurance challenge in which he spent 107 days in an enclosure with 36 venomous snakes, an experience that helped establish his reputation as a specialist in dangerous reptiles. Over the course of his career, he has encountered and documented species ranging from black mambas and king cobras to rhinos, hyenas, and other large wildlife.

Stevens is also the author of several books about his life and experiences with wildlife. His most comprehensive memoir, Running Wild, traces his journey from reptile curator to photographer, filmmaker, television personality, and international adventurer. The book also explores the personal challenges and setbacks he experienced away from the camera.

Now in his seventies, Stevens remains associated with wildlife photography, natural history, and adventure storytelling. Recent biographical material describes him as residing in Australia with his wife, Amy, while his decades of television work continue to reach audiences through international broadcasts and streaming platforms.