ABOUT ME
ABOUT ME
DEVELOPING NATURALISTS
DEVELOPING NATURALISTS
MY MISSION
To educate and enthuse all generations in the local community about wildlife, its importance and conservation.
IT STARTED WITH AN IMPALA!
I have been a wildlife enthusiast, some would say obsessive, since I had the good fortune to visit Kruger National Park when I was twelve. The two days I spent in the Park were part of a school trip whilst living in South Africa. I still have fond, vivid memories of the
experience, which included bumping into a male Impala in the camp. There was less than two-meters between us and, being only 12 years old, it was easily as tall as I was. Even though it was well armed with impressive horns, I can’t remember feeling scared.
What I do remember was the buzz of excitement which, I like to think, may have been the trigger for my love of wildlife. Almost half a century later, I remain very passionate about wildlife and get a real kick out of talking to people about it.
OVER 20 YEARS OF talk: Wildlife
I first launched talk: Wildlife as an online wildlife and conservation magazine in 2000 – before the ‘blogging’ explosion! It has taken many forms since then, including a YouTube channel. In 2022, after many years of contemplation, I took talk: Wildlife to the next level, by launching it as a natural history education business.
TOWARDS EDUCATION
My journey into Natural History education began after I left the BTO. I volunteered at Ranworth, Weeting (Norfolk Wildlife Trust) and Strumpshaw Fen (RSPB). I loved talking to the visitors, especially families, in particular those who were new to nature. I was hooked on enthusing people about wildlife.
DEVELOPING NATURALISTS
Through setting up and delivering education and engagement services for Pensthorpe NP, I got a taste of presenting activities for schools. I left the role with a mission, which I have the good fortune to be working towards. I hope, along the way, to help people develop their passion for and understanding of nature.
MY BASES
WYMONDHAM
The ‘Nest’, a large wooden barn, sits in the 20-acre grounds of the outstanding Forest School for Life in Silfield, Wymondham. I run indoor and outdoor activities and courses from here.
EAST HARLING
An area of stunningly refurbished pingo ponds (kettle lakes) and woodland on the Kemp Farm. A great area, with a variety of wildlife habitats and species, I use for my outdoor activities.
GLANDFORD (HOLT)
A purpose built bird hide over-looking the Cley Spy gardens with its many bird feeders. I use the hide, garden and surrounding countryside to deliver various wildlife activities and courses.
WITH THANKS!
I am very grateful to my key sponsor, Cley Spy and the following supporters. They make it possible for me to keep prices for the talk: Wildlife services as low as possible so I can achieve my vision and mission.
Forest School for Life I Kemp Herbs I Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists Society I WildSounds I Opticron I WingSearch Members of team: Wildlife.
Anonymous donation – ‘Friends of Allan and admirers of his work!’