Robbie McDonald

Meet our Animal Expert and Nutty Professor Robbie – Covering London and South East & East of England

About Robbie:

Meet Robbie, one of our dedicated animal experts and a true "nutty professor" here at Wild Science. With a fervent passion for the natural world, Robbie immerses himself in the fascinating field of arachnology, the scientific study of arachnids. This includes not only intriguing spiders but also captivating creatures like scorpions, pseudoscorpions, harvestmen, ticks, and mites. His interests don't stop there; he also delves into herpetology, the branch of zoology focused on amphibians and reptiles.

Robbie leads a whirlwind of a life, especially when it comes to caring for his incredible collection of over 1,000 animals. Each day is filled with unique challenges and rewarding experiences as he accommodates their needs. One of his greatest joys is sharing his enthusiasm for the animal kingdom with a broader audience through his engaging YouTube channel. There, he delights viewers with fascinating animal facts, comprehensive care guides, and inspiring adventures as he travels to exotic locations in search of wildlife.

He is now a cherished member of our Wild Science family, and his enthusiasm for sharing knowledge knows no bounds. Whether collaborating with colleagues or engaging participants at workshops, his passion for the animal kingdom shines brightly. His love for wildlife is palpable, as he eagerly imparts insights about the myriad creatures that inhabit our world, inspiring others to appreciate and protect them just as he does.

What areas does Robbie cover?

Robbie is committed to sharing his passion for wildlife and science with communities across a wide spectrum of locations in London, the South East, and the East of England. From the bustling streets of central London to the tranquil neighbourhoods in the city's northern, southern, eastern, and western parts, Robbie is determined to bring his vibrant animal encounters and interactive science workshops to everyone. His outreach extends to picturesque counties like Oxfordshire, the scenic landscapes of Sussex, and the charming villages of Kent and many more.

Robbie's unwavering dedication ensures that no corner of these regions is left untouched by the joy of discovery and the wonder of the natural world. His goal is not just to entertain but to inspire a lasting appreciation for science and wildlife. He makes every experience memorable and educational, fostering a sense of awe and connection to nature in all who attend.

Robbie's favourite part of work for Wild Science:

We asked Robbie what his favourite part of work was. He said:

“My favourite part of working for Wild Science is the unique opportunity it provides me another platform to educate the public about the incredible diversity of animal species. Through engaging presentations and hands-on experiences, I share accurate information that dispels common myths and misconceptions. I aim to help people develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for these creatures, highlighting their roles in our ecosystems and the fascinating behaviours that make them extraordinary.

Another fulfilling part of my role is helping people overcome their phobias of animals. I passionately believe that fear can often stem from misunderstanding, so I work to change that fear into fascination. By offering amazing experiences that allow people to interact with animals safely and respectfully, I aim to reveal their gentle and nurturing qualities. Whether showcasing the playfulness of a rabbit, the beauty of a snake, or the intelligence of a tarantula, I strive to create memorable moments that encourage others to embrace and celebrate the wonders of the animal world, fostering a connection that replaces fear with curiosity and admiration.”

Robbie’s experience with Wild Science:

Robbie’s journey with us has been an enlightening experience, marked by his interactions with wonderful clients and the dedicated team at Wild Science. Each member of the company warmly welcomes him, creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Robbie’s profound enthusiasm for the animal kingdom inspires innovative ideas for presenting animal education.

At Wild Science, our encouragement allows him to share his passion for animals, fostering an atmosphere brimming with positivity and excitement. His genuine love for wildlife radiates, captivating everyone around him.

Moreover, Wild Science not only empowers Robbie but also enables our other experts to cultivate a shared understanding, allowing them to express their own passions. This collaboration creates a vibrant and engaging atmosphere that enriches everyone involved, making the experience truly extraordinary.

What session Robbie does:

At Wild Science, Robbie immerses himself in the fascinating world of animals, dedicating his expertise to various engaging workshops. With a profound knowledge of animal habitats, physiology, and dietary habits, Robbie captivates his audience, ensuring that each participant learns something new and exciting. He also hosts open events, inviting the public to explore his remarkable collection of creatures, where people can stroll through and enjoy a unique, interactive experience.

Robbie particularly loves conducting workshops at schools, feeling that teaching about animals is his true calling. He delights in sparking the curiosity of young minds, creating an atmosphere filled with wonder and joy. He aims to provide children with an unforgettable experience, ensuring they leave with knowledge and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

What is his favourite animal/animals?

Robbie has a deep passion for all creatures, particularly the unusual animals rarely encountered as pets. Yet, among these fascinating beings, he has a special fondness for Tarantulas and True Spiders. While many people shy away from these captivating arachnids, Robbie embraces them wholeheartedly, living harmoniously with a diverse collection of these spiders.

What draws him to these creatures is not just their unique and often misunderstood nature, but also the intricate beauty they possess. Robbie believes they are some of the most intriguing organisms on the planet, showcasing remarkable adaptations and behaviours. He dedicates himself to their care, not only nurturing them but also actively educating others about their importance. Through his efforts, he aims to dispel the common fears surrounding spiders, revealing them as delicate, crucial players in the ecosystem and vital to human survival in ways many might not realise.

What started his love for animals?

Robbie's fascination with animals began at the tender age of five, sparked by the captivating documentaries of David Attenborough. Entranced by the bizarre and beautiful creatures that graced the screen, Robbie would sit for hours, wide-eyed and eager to learn about the wonders of the natural world. Recognising their son's growing passion, Robbie's parents encouraged this curiosity by gifting him his very own pet—a stunning barn owl with plumage reminiscent of soft golden feathers and strikingly bright eyes. As his love for animals blossomed, so did the variety of his pets, eventually embracing more exotic creatures as his knowledge expanded.

However, their support extended far beyond simply providing pets. Robbie's parents enriched his education with a wealth of books, literature, and an array of documentaries, creating a stimulating environment that nurtured his fascination. This dedication to his learning has ensured that Robbie’s love for animals remains as vibrant as it did during those formative early years, continuing to bring him immense joy and wonder as he explores the incredible diversity of life around him.