Connor Butler
Ecologist and Nature Guide

Connor is an ecologist and education consultant with a decade of experience connecting people with the natural world. He has spent the past year studying dung beetles in London’s parks and sits as Head of Learning at Chelsea Physic Garden. To date, Connor has encouraged over 7,000 people to take time to appreciate the smallest details in nature and to show love for the often unloved species on our planet.

ADULT GUIDED WALKS

The Birds & the Bees: Queer Ecology Guided Walk

Did you know that trees can change their sex, that slugs have both female and male reproductive organs, and that many species of birds pair up into same-sex couples?

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and advocate for increasing accessibility in outdoor spaces, Connor developed a guided walk challenging perceptions of what is considered “natural” or “unnatural”. Discover the seedy lives of plants and how “Queerness” can be found in everything from birds to bugs.

Connor has delivered over 30 sold-out Queer Ecology walks for organisations such as Chelsea Physic Garden, Garden Museum, The Royal Parks, The Linnean Society, and The Chesterfield Mayfair. Upcoming guided walks.

Guided Nature Walks

Connor’s expertise as a nature guide shines through his extensive track record of leading tours all over the world, captivating and educating thousands of visitors. With a unique talent for seamlessly intertwining captivating narratives with complex scientific descriptions, Connor effortlessly conveys information with a touch of humour, ensuring an engaging and enjoyable experience for all.

Connor has a particular interest in weird and unloved species, such as dung beetles, woodlice, toads, stinging nettles, and slugs.

Connor has delivered 100+ nature walks across London, Singapore, and Malaysia.

“Connor was the perfect blend of funny and informative! Great presenter. Loved his passion for his field and his wide breadth of general knowledge.” – 2023

“Connor was knowledgeable, warm, funny and at ease with the group. A natural!” – 2023

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Bug hunting for families

Connor is dedicated to fostering a meaningful connection between younger generations and the natural world, particularly within urban areas. As an experienced entomologist, Connor empowers children with the confidence to use nets and entomological tools, allowing them to catch and identify bugs and grasshoppers. Tailoring the programme to diverse groups and spaces, Connor weaves in fun games, captivating songs, and enjoyable crafts, creating a holistic experience that sparks curiosity and appreciation for nature.

Connor has delivered 25+ family sessions for organisations such as Historic Royal Palaces, Garden Museum, and The Royal Parks.

Citizen Science

With a professional background as an ecologist and academic researcher, Connor leverages his scientific expertise to cultivate collaborative research projects with the public. Recognising the immense value of Citizen Science as a tool for engagement, Connor has developed several initiatives, including a successful Dung Beetle Citizen Science project. By training individuals of all ages to survey beetles, it not only enriches participants’ understanding of nature but also generates valuable data.

ART WORKSHOPS

Cyanotype Printmaking

Connor has developed and delivered several natural printmaking courses that bridge the gap between art and the natural world. Participants not only gain botanical knowledge but also engage in the therapeutic practice of creating art using pressed plants. This blend of artistic expression and connection with nature serves as a wonderful exercise for promoting wellness and nurturing mental health.

PUBLIC SPEAKING

TEDx Talk

Driven by a passion for cultivating a positive connection between people and the natural world, Connor’s expertise caught the attention of TEDx Southampton University. Invited as a speaker, he delivered a captivating talk that revolved around the transformative power of slowing down and embracing the intricate details of nature, emphasising the importance of insects.

Video Presenting

Connor has worked as a presenter and scriptwriter, notably for an online mini-series for The Royal Parks.

CONTACT

Email Connor at Connor.the.ecologist@gmail.com
Follow Connor on Instagram @Connor_the_ecologist