Janine M. Benyus was born in 1961. While details about her specific early childhood are limited, it's known that she developed a deep fascination with the natural world from a young age. This early passion for nature laid the foundation for her future career focused on understanding and emulating its principles.

Benyus graduated summa cum laude from Yale University with dual degrees in Natural Resource Ecology and English Literature. This unique combination of scientific understanding and communication skills would later prove invaluable in translating complex biological concepts into accessible and inspiring narratives for a wider audience.