Indy Greene on Immersing Yourself in Nature

Indy Greene is a 15 year old Naturalist and Conservationist, living near Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve in Nottinghamshire. He recently became an ambassador for the RSPB, regularly doing practical conservation work in Sherwood. Recently, he helped launch the RSPB Birdcrime Report and he believes that ‘creating a wilder future for us and our planet is incredibly important’. He kindly sat down with our team to answer a few questions on animals, nature, and his relationship with the League Against Cruel Sports.

What is your absolute favourite animal to talk about and why?

My absolute favourite animal is an almost impossible choice, there are a lot to choose from. One animal however which forever holds my attention is the Goshawk. A spectacular bird of prey. They are the ultimate woodland predator weaving through trees, barely making a sound. Many people will never get to witness these phantoms of the forest, if you do, you will never forget the encounter.

When did you first discover your love of nature?

My love for nature, like for so many people, started in my garden, just exploring. I was fortunate enough to grow up in Sherwood Forest, it was essentially my playground. It was here where my love of the natural world exploded into life.

When did you decide to dedicate yourself to spreading your knowledge and passion for wildlife?

Sharing my passion for wildlife began early. I was always excited to share what I had seen with my parents. As I grew older, I began to realise the importance of the natural world. The power it has to lift our moods, and how essential it is to protect it. Through social media and beyond I decided to share my thoughts and experiences.

How did you hear about League Against Cruel Sports and League of Animals?

I first became aware of the League Against Cruel Sports through social media. I was drawn to it and continue to be, because it was raising a voice for the voiceless.

As someone who has been home-schooled and on the doorstep of Sherwood Forest, you had more access to nature than most. Is there anything you wish had been different in your education?

From the age of 12 I was home educated. My parents realised that what I wanted to learn about was beyond the four walls of a classroom. Then wildlife and the environment weren’t exactly on the National Curriculum. I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to study for my GCSEs at home, and to have the time to pursue my passion. By volunteering with the RSPB at Sherwood, and continuing to explore the forest, my knowledge grew. Maybe the proposed GCSE in Natural History which have been considered for years will one day be introduced.

What is your advice to teachers looking to educate their classes on the environment?

As regards teachers teaching about the environment it would seem such an interesting and vital topic to cover. It is probably always wise to start on your own doorstep. The beauty and variety of our own wildlife is astonishing. However, our natural world is in big trouble, species are persecuted, environments destroyed at a terrifying speed. Where better place for children to learn about our natural world than through their classroom teacher.

What simple things can:
1.) teachers
2.) children
do to help wildlife in 2022?

Ultimately change is brought about through learning and understanding. Teachers can inspire children to have an understanding and respect for the natural world around them. If the school has some land, turn a section into a wildlife friendly area. Allow children to see the difference their efforts can make on a small scale on their patch.

School classes can lend their support to petitions, to local wildlife projects or by visiting local wildlife patches. Hopefully some childrens desire to learn more about wildlife and to protect it will go beyond their classroom.

Do you have a message for the children who are just starting their journey of learning about nature?

Never stop wondering, never stop asking questions. It’s not all about the big stuff, lions, elephants, pandas. Marvel at the small stuff. Immerse yourself in your local patch. Never think it is not cool to love nature.

Ultimately nature is cooler than you can ever imagine!