About Tom & Cedar Hollar
Bringing decades of wildlife expertise to every expedition
Built on Trust, Driven by Purpose
Cedar Hollar Services started with a mission to help Texas landowners be better stewards of their property while making land ownership more affordable through agricultural valuation programs. Along the way, we discovered something beautiful: people everywhere want to make a difference for wildlife, whether they have 100 acres, a backyard or an apartment balcony.
We’ve spent years crafting custom native solitary bee nest boxes, bluebird houses, and wildlife habitat solutions for rural properties. Every piece is built to last, and designed with both wildlife and people in mind. Now, we’re bringing that same craftsmanship and commitment to conservation directly to you.
Whether you’re shopping for a single bluebird house or need a complete agricultural valuation program, Cedar Hollar Services brings the same values to every interaction: quality craftsmanship, genuine conservation impact, and respect for the land and the people who care for it.
We believe wildlife stewardship should be accessible to everyone. Our online store makes it easy to start right where you are.
Tom Shaughnessy
Founder of Cedar Hollar
Tom’s Professional Credentials & Expertise
Discover Tom’s qualifications, experience, and areas of specialization that make him a trusted expert.
Professional Certifications
Certified Wildlife Biologist with Master Naturalist training and specialized expertise in avian conservation.
- Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB)
- Master Naturalist Certification
- Avian Conservation Specialist
Education & Training
M.S. in Wildlife Biology from Virginia Tech, B.S. in Environmental Science, with advanced studies in Ornithology.
- M.S. Wildlife Biology, Virginia Tech
- B.S. Environmental Science
- Advanced Ornithology Studies
Field Experience
Over 15 years of wildlife research, documenting 500+ species, with publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- 15+ years wildlife research
- 500+ species documented
- Published in peer-reviewed journals
Meet Tom, Your Expert Guide
My career has spanned 25 years in professional sales and marketing, but if you couldn't find me at the office, I was always outdoors—birding, fishing, kayaking, or leading a group on a nature adventure at a local park.
What began as a lifelong passion for birding in both field and urban environments evolved into something more. Over the past 25+ years, I’ve been developing and leading outdoor nature programs and activities, sharing my love for wildlife with scouts, school groups, and community members across Texas.
In 2019, I founded Cedar Hollar Services to serve local homeowners and landowners with their wildlife and conservation needs. As a Certified Texas Master Naturalist and Trained Certified Interpretive Guide, I bring together professional expertise, volunteer experience, and genuine enthusiasm to help you connect with the natural world around you.
When I’m not leading birding trips or conducting habitat assessments, you’ll find me active in area beekeeping organizations, serving as President of The New Ulm Texas Chamber of Commerce, or volunteering as an interpreter for state and local park systems.
Real Moments in the Field
Explore real moments captured during our on-site sessions—authentic snapshots from our day-to-day field work.
Areas of Expertise – Cedar Hollar
Discover what Cedar Hollar specializes in.
Bird Identification
Expert knowledge of bird species in field, honed over 25+ years of passionate birding
Outdoor Education
Decades of experience developing and leading nature programs for diverse audiences and skill levels
Wildlife & Conservation
Practical expertise in wildlife habitat management and conservation practices for homeowners and landowners
Interpretive Guiding
Certified training in making natural and cultural heritage accessible and meaningful to visitors
Beekeeping & Pollinators
Active member of area beekeeping organizations with hands-on experience in pollinator conservation
Youth & Group Leadership
Extensive background leading outdoor adventures for scouts, school groups, and community organizations
Cedar Hollar Journey
Building trust through consistent excellence and community impact
Founded Cedar Hollar Services
Established to serve local homeowners and landowners with their wildlife and conservation needs
Community Leadership
Elected President of The New Ulm Texas Chamber of Commerce, strengthening local business connections
Conservation Impact
Expanded services to include comprehensive habitat assessments and pollinator garden consulting
Growing Network
Built strong partnerships with local parks, schools, and conservation organizations across the region
Why Trust Cedar Hollar?
Proven expertise, decades of experience, and a commitment to wildlife conservation you can rely on.
Certified Expertise
As a Certified Texas Master Naturalist and Trained Certified Interpretive Guide, I bring professional-level knowledge combined with 25+ years of hands-on field experience.
Proven Track Record
In business since 2019, serving local homeowners and landowners with their wildlife and conservation needs. Trusted by the community for reliable, professional service.
Deep Local Roots
Currently serving as President of The New Ulm Texas Chamber of Commerce, with extensive knowledge of regional habitats and wildlife throughout Texas.
Safety & Ethics First
All activities follow Leave No Trace principles and ethical wildlife viewing standards developed through years of volunteer work with state and local park systems.
Community Leadership
Active service on conservation boards, chambers of commerce, and area beekeeping organizations. Eagle Scout and Adult Leader in Boy Scouts of America.
Lifelong Dedication
25+ years developing outdoor nature programs for scouts, school groups, and park visitors. Continually expanding knowledge through active participation in conservation networks.
Ready to Explore Nature Together?
Whether you’re booking a guided birding trip, attending a workshop, or scheduling a consultation, you’re in experienced hands.