Jens was born on the 23rd of December 1983 in Flörsheim, Germany and moved to South Africa in July 1991. He has had a passionate interest in wildlife and conservation from a very early age.

Jens has also been actively involved in numerous clubs and associations, including the Spider Club of Southern Africa, Transvaal Herpetological Association and the East Rand Herpetological Association, of which he is currently the Chairman.

With a particular interest in reptiles and herpetology, Jens is a highly experienced reptile keeper, and has kept and bred a diverse range of reptile species, both South African and exotic. His husbandry skills extend beyond reptiles, and he has broad experience with many other animals, including birds and mammals and has assisted various zoological institutions with the care, maintenance and handling of their animals. He also travels widely in search of birds, mammals, reptiles and other animals.

A keen photographer, Jens has had many photographs published, with the latest project being The South African Bushveld by Lee Gutteridge, where 12 reptile photographs were used to illustrate this comprehensive guide to the natural history of the Waterberg. Jens also edited the reptile section of this publication.

Jens has also been involved in various film shoots where snakes and other animals were needed, both as a handler, actor and technical advisor.