A Matter of Ecology.

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As the year begins to draw to yet another inevitable close, many of us find ourselves reflecting on what has been and what may lie ahead. For me, I can say this year has been nothing short of productive. From changing jobs to diving into the crystalline waters of the Red Sea, it has been eventful, to say the least. But my focus now is firmly on the horizon and what the future may hold for me and my career.

Of course, I possess no crystal ball to predict how my story will unfold, but I do have an idea of the chapters I hope to write. For a decade, I shaped my personality and honed my interests within the pet industry, with aquatics becoming my niche and passion. Over time, and after meeting a kaleidoscope of colourful and marvellous people, I made the significant decision to leave this industry midway through 2024, embarking on a journey to pursue what truly matters to me.

For years, I invested in my education through various degrees, and it finally felt like the right time to put that knowledge into action. That step led me to Dartmoor, where I began working as an animal keeper. Surrounded by the captivating beauty of a temperate rainforest, I felt the first spark of momentum. In this remarkable landscape, Nathan’s Wild Isles was born.

Being surrounded by such a dazzling array of species provided endless opportunities to learn about the natural world and the extraordinary wildlife that inhabits it. They say you can deepen your understanding of a subject by teaching it to others, so I decided to share my fascination with the science of nature on social media. Admittedly, I haven’t the faintest idea how to grow a following, but I’m determined to dive in headfirst and keep swimming until I’m too far out to turn back. Some might call this reckless, but I consider it an insurance policy against my own indecision; a way to ensure I stick to the path I’ve chosen.

As this snowball of momentum continues to grow, I’ve also found myself dipping a toe back into the world of voluntary work. I hope this marks the first of many stepping stones on my journey to becoming an ecologist. What better way to contribute to preserving the natural world than to not only study it but actively participate in its protection and restoration? Immersing myself in hands-on projects allows me to deepen my understanding of ecosystems while cultivating a profound sense of purpose and responsibility. Each small action—whether planting trees, monitoring wildlife, or assisting in conservation efforts—feels like a tangible step toward aligning my values with my actions. This journey isn’t just about building a career; it’s about fostering a life dedicated to sustainability, stewardship, and inspiring others to connect with the natural world.

It’s going to be quite the adventure, but it’s one I am determined to make a story out of.

With gratitude and wild enthusiasm,
Nathan

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