ABOUT ME
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-and-a-half 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 and 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.
FEEDBACK
“Just a rather belated thank you for taking Paddy and I around Titchwell Bird Reserve the other Monday. It was a fascinating day and the perfect gift. We learnt so much and felt really inspired by your enthusiasm.”
Sally and Paddy – Norwich
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 I Members of team: Wildlife.
Anonymous donation – ‘Friends of Allan and admirers of his work!’