Forrest Galante is an American wildlife biologist, explorer, and television personality known for his daring expeditions in search of species believed to be extinct. Born on March 31, 1988, he developed a passion for nature during his childhood in Zimbabwe and California. He gained global recognition as the host of Extinct or Alive, where he investigates lost animals and promotes conservation awareness. Beyond television, he is also an author and environmental advocate dedicated to protecting endangered wildlife. Through field research, storytelling, and hands-on exploration, he has built a reputation as a modern-day adventurer committed to wildlife conservation, animal rediscovery, field biology, and environmental education.
Early Life & Background
Forrest Galante was born on March 31, 1988, in California, United States. Shortly after his birth, his family moved to Harare, Zimbabwe, where he was raised on a farm surrounded by diverse wildlife. His mother, Jacaranda Summerfield, ran a safari business and worked as one of Africa’s first female safari guides and bush pilots, exposing him to remote ecosystems and wildlife from an early age. Growing up, Forrest spent much of his childhood exploring the African bush, handling snakes, tracking animals, and snorkelling reefs, which fostered a deep love for nature and adventure that would shape his career.
Political unrest in Zimbabwe in 2001 forced his family to flee the countryside and relocate back to California. There he completed high school and later pursued a degree in biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, with a focus in wildlife and natural sciences, grounding his childhood experiences with scientific training.
Career & Television Success
Forrest Galante’s television career began in 2013 with a notable appearance on Discovery Channel’s Naked and Afraid, where he survived a 21‑day challenge in the Panama jungle, earning one of the show’s highest survival ratings. His on‑screen charisma, survival skills, and scientific curiosity soon led to larger opportunities in wildlife media.
He became widely known for hosting Extinct or Alive on Animal Planet, a documentary series that sends him around the world to investigate animals thought to be extinct and document evidence of their possible existence. The show blends field biology, conservation, and exploration to engage audiences with endangered and rediscovered species.
Galante also hosted Mysterious Creatures with Forrest Galante, and has appeared on several Shark Week specials and other wildlife programs, solidifying his profile as a leading figure in adventure science media. Through these shows, he has worked with conservationists and partners globally, using storytelling to raise wildlife awareness.
Personal Life – Wife & Family
Forrest Galante married Jessica Evans in 2015. The couple met years earlier and share a strong life partnership rooted in shared interests in wildlife and exploration. They reside in the United States and balance adventure travel with family life. In recent years, they became parents, and often highlight family‑oriented outdoor experiences.
Jessica has appeared alongside Forrest in some field work and documentary episodes, offering insights on wildlife care and conservation. Their family life reflects a shared commitment to education and nature.
Books, Public Appearances & Conservation
Forrest is also an author: his memoir Still Alive: A Wild Life of Rediscovery chronicles his journeys and the philosophy behind his mission to protect endangered species. He frequently appears on podcasts, panels, and public speaking events, sharing conservation messages with broad audiences.
He collaborates with global conservation organisations and contributes to research projects and awareness campaigns. His media presence reaches beyond traditional wildlife audiences, engaging viewers on platforms like YouTube and social media.
Age & Net Worth (2026)
As of 2026, Forrest Galante is 38 years old — born on March 31, 1988. His age reflects over two decades of wildlife exploration, media work, and scientific outreach since his early years in Africa.
Estimates of his net worth in 2026 range around $3–6 million, derived from his television hosting contracts, book royalties, speaking engagements, social media partnerships, and wildlife documentary work. His income is diversified across media projects and brand collaborations that tie into conservation and outdoor education.
Quick Biography Table
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Forrest Galante |
| Date of Birth | March 31, 1988 |
| Age (2026) | 38 years |
| Birthplace | California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara |
| Profession | Wildlife Biologist, TV Host, Author |
| Famous For | Extinct or Alive, Animal Planet |
| Height | Approx. 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Jessica Evans |
| Children | Yes (Son) |
| Mother | Jacaranda Summerfield |
| Siblings | Sister (Name private) |
| Primary Income Source | Television, Books, Public Speaking |
| Net Worth (2026) | Estimated $3–6 million |
| Notable Works | Extinct or Alive, Mysterious Creatures, Shark Week specials |
| Book | Still Alive: A Wild Life of Rediscovery |
Final Thoughts
Forrest Galante’s life blends science, exploration, and storytelling. Raised between the wild landscapes of Africa and the structured world of American academia, he transformed his early passion for nature into a career that educates millions about endangered life on Earth. Through his television work, books, and public engagements, Galante continues to push boundaries — not simply to entertain, but to inspire better understanding and protection of the natural world.
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FAQs
Why was Forrest Galante forced out of Zimbabwe?
He has stated that political and economic instability in Zimbabwe during land reform policies affected his family, leading them to leave the country.
Has Forrest Galante found an extinct animal?
He has helped rediscover several species believed to be extinct or lost, though not officially classified as globally extinct.
Which extinct animal has been found?
One notable rediscovery linked to his expeditions is the Fernandina Island Galápagos giant tortoise, thought extinct for over 100 years before being found alive.
What are Forrest Galante’s qualifications?
He studied biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, specializing in wildlife biology and environmental science.
What ethnicity is Forrest Galante?
He is of mixed heritage, with American and Zimbabwean background.
