Although he wanted to be known as 'dolphin boy,' Michael Shaffer became fondly called 'bird' after using the word to cover up company logos on his outerwear. After a childhood spent in the natural landscapes of the Methow valley in Washington, Bird went to University and studied Geography & Environmental Studies. While traveling around working for a Hemp clothing company Bird crossed paths with Troy Jungen & Ptor Spricenieks who encouraged him to "just pack your bag and go over to Chamonix for a season. It'll do you good." He has since been visiting Chamonix for full or partial seasons for the last 20 years. Bird worked up to skiing some of the wildest lines in the Chamonix region and interfaced with many of the other legends of the sport. His energy and love for the mountains is contagious. In this interview we talk about history, we talk about tuning in to nature, and we talk about longevity in such a uniquely magical and high consequence sport.