My first memory of the natural world

By Mike Russell

Senior Conservation Advisor

My first memory of the natural world was joyfully chaotic at the time, and it sparked a lifetime’s career too!

I grew up in South London, which is one of the top places in the country for stag beetles. When I was about four or five I remember collecting a group of these horned creepy crawlies and taking them into school. We put them in a tank, but to the consternation of the teacher they escaped and ended up flying around the classroom!

Later when I was ill with mumps, my mum bought me the Observer Book of Birds. I loved the drawings, and couldn’t wait to get out there to see what I could spot. I still remember the thrill of identifying my first nuthatch!

Those early moments inspired me to do all I could for the natural world. When I went off to college I decided to study Geography as that was the closest I could get to nature. I started volunteering with Dorset Wildlife Trust and RSPB in the 1980s, and then took a full time job with the Sussex Wildlife Trust in 1985.

One of the most satisfying and enjoyable parts of the job has been introducing children to the fascinating array of wildlife that’s living and breathing and teeming all around us. To show someone something for the first time, it’s such a thrill. It’s vital for the survival of the natural world too.

Let me show you just how vital. When I worked with our Wildlife Explorers, there was one young girl who was so inspired by the natural world that she went on later that year to the Earth Summit at Rio and gave a speech to the United Nations. By triggering this initial engagement and inspiration, we can ensure that young people go on to be custodians of the natural world we love.

I’m coming up to retirement now, but I’m living proof that formative moments in the natural world can lead to a lifetime of caring for the natural kingdom. What we do today for our children pays dividends tomorrow for the environment and our world. So please help Sussex Wildlife Trust carry on the work – support them with a donation today and help inspire the new generation to love nature.