Arnside Knott (Day Trip)

Russell grew up in the north west of England developing a great passion for wildlife from an early age. He graduated in Animal Conservation from the University of Cumbria in 2007 and then started working in wildlife education giving talks to school groups about Cumbrian wildlife. Later he began providing wildlife education experiences to nurseries, schools and wildlife charities. Over the following years his knowledge and understanding of the UK flora and fauna flourished, alongside a love of sharing the wonders of the natural world with others. Russ has helped wildlife charities such as the Canal and Rivers Trust and the Woodland Trust develop their wildlife education department, and trains volunteers and staff in wildlife identification and public speaking skills.

His enthusiasm for the natural world makes him a valued member of the Naturetrek leader team. Russell’s love of nature began with ornithology but he has now developed into a well-rounded naturalist who not only highlights interesting species but demonstrates how their relationship with other species and environments connect them all to the greater web of life.

Caroline has been a keen naturalist for over 15 years, with wide-ranging interests that include butterflies, moths, birds and vascular plants. Her ever-growing passion for nature resulted in a career change, having worked as an ecologist since 2020 and now specialising in freshwater ecology. Caroline has also travelled widely within the UK, Europe and North America to see a wide range of special places and wildlife – her highlight to date was watching a Great Grey Owl hunting just metres away. Caroline can usually be found out and about enjoying the local wildlife around Morecambe Bay where she lives with her husband and pet guinea pigs, and also organises and leads wildlife events for a wide range of audiences. She is especially passionate about proving that not all moths are brown and boring!