Smardale Gill, South Cumbria (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.

Nick has been an avid birdwatcher from a very young age. After spending 3 years at university in Cornwall, he moved to the north west of England where he now lives in Morecambe Bay. Nick works for the RSPB as a warden at Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay nature reserve, where his work involves practical habitat management across a range of habitats, monitoring exciting species such as Bittern, Marsh Harrier, Bearded Tit, Avocets and a range of butterflies, and leading guided walks. He has also worked as a professional ornithologist around Great Britain from Wales to the English moorlands and the mountain tops of Wester Ross. Nick is also heavily involved with his local bird club, Lancaster and District Birdwatching Society, where amongst other tasks he organises the field trips programme and often leads field trips.