Sophie Pavelle hiking in Cornwall in 2019

Sophie Pavelle: The zoologist and hiker who’s obsessed with British wildlife

James Michael Forrest, aka ‘Mountain Man’

When you’re outdoors, how much attention do you really pay to the wildlife around you?

I know that I often focus on the views and scenery around me, rather than the insects, birds and animals. But when Sophie Pavelle’s outside, it’s about appreciating everything from snails and butterflies to kestrels and seals.

Sophie Pavelle

Sophie is a zoologist, science communicator, environmental advocate and the Youth Ambassador of The Wildlife Trusts. She’s incredibly passionate about the wildlife we have in the UK and through her work she tries to encourage others to appreciate it and therefore want to protect it.

How did she get here? It involved a 300 mile hike around the coast of Cornwall for her masters degree!

Sophie Pavelle on her 'Sophie's Wild Cornwall' 300 mile hike in 2017
(Photo: Sophie Pavelle on her ‘Sophie’s Wild Cornwall’ 300 mile hike in 2017)

Sophie and I went for a walk (before the lockdown) on Woodbury Common in Devon, also known as the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths. You’ll hear the crunch of the pebblebed paths we walked along at the beginning of the episode.

I wanted to ask Sophie how she got involved in her outdoors career, why she thinks getting people outside is more important than ever, and her tips for spotting and identifying the creatures around you!

Sophie Pavelle getting close up with wildflowers
(Photo: Sophie Pavelle getting close up with wildflowers)

I hope you enjoy the podcast and Sophie’s story. Listen out for her tips at the end of the podcast, as well as the relaxing minute of sounds from nature recorded by you, the listeners!

You’ll find Sophie on Instagram @sophiepavsYou can watch Sophie’s YouTube videos of her adventures here.

If would be fantastic if you could rate, review and subscribe to the podcast – and please feel free to spread the word to your family and friends!

Thanks!

Liv x

Sophie Pavelle on Woodbury Common in Devon, where we recorded the podcast episode.
(Photo: Sophie Pavelle on Woodbury Common in Devon, where we recorded the podcast episode)
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