Shannen Mcaleer

Meet our Animal Expert and Nutty Professor, Shannen- Covering North of England, the Midlands and North Wales

About Shannen:

Meet Shannen, our esteemed senior expert from Manchester! With her extensive knowledge and experience, Shannen plays a pivotal role in guiding our team of experts, ensuring that everything runs seamlessly so they can fully engage in their day-to-day activities. Like all our dedicated experts, Shannen possesses an immense passion for animals and a deep commitment to conserving our planet’s diverse species.

She is devoted to educating individuals of all ages about the significance and wonders of the animal kingdom. Shannen firmly believes in the power of fostering a relationship between people and nature, understanding that this connection is vital for our planet's future. She tirelessly emphasises the importance of protecting our remarkable Earth and its incredible inhabitants, inspiring others to fall in love with the natural world and championing the urgent need for its preservation.

What areas does Shannen cover?

You'll find Shannen in Manchester, her hometown, but her adventures don’t end there. She has an insatiable passion and is dedicated to sharing the Wild Science experience with everyone she meets. Shannen journeys through the vibrant landscapes of the North West and East of England, visiting bustling cities like Liverpool, the lively seaside resort of Blackpool, and the historic charm of Newcastle and Sunderland, to name a few.

Her travels extend into the heart of the Midlands, where you can catch her enthusiastic presence in Derby, the diverse communities of Wolverhampton, and the bustling streets of Birmingham. She even crosses over into the picturesque scenery of North Wales. These destinations are just a glimpse into her extensive travels; Shannen is always ready to drive far and wide to ensure that others enjoy the incredible experiences she brings. Her commitment to her work is evident, as she pours her heart into making every day memorable while doing what she loves.

Shannen’s favourite part of working for Wild Science:

We asked Shannen about her favourite part of working with us at Wild Science, and her response was heartwarming. At Wild Science, we often encounter individuals for whom it’s their first time meeting a particular animal, and the experience is truly magical. The thrill of touching and holding these creatures ignites a sense of wonder that is absolutely incredible.

Shannen revealed that her favourite moment comes when she witnesses someone finally holding an animal they’ve always dreamed of connecting with—be it a snake, a tarantula, a frog, or a lizard. The excitement radiates from them, and you can almost feel the buzz of that rare experience. Many people go their entire lives without the opportunity to interact with such animals, and Wild Science makes it possible.

It's something truly special to be able to make people’s wishes and dreams come true while fostering genuine connections with these fascinating creatures. Additionally, these experiences help to break down stereotypes and misconceptions, allowing individuals to form bonds that challenge their preconceived notions. It’s not just about meeting animals; it’s about creating memories and changing perspectives.

Shannen’s experience with Wild Science:

Shannen is a beacon of joy and enthusiasm, thriving in her role among a team of exceptional experts. Each day presents her with the delightful opportunity to meet various fascinating individuals from all corners of the UK, a prospect that lights up her spirit. Working at Wild Science, no two days are ever alike; this dynamic environment ensures that her job is anything but mundane. She derives immense satisfaction from sharing her passion for the extraordinary creatures under her care and imparting knowledge to those around her.

Starting her journey with us as an ordinary expert, Shannen's unwavering dedication and hard work propelled her to the esteemed position of Senior Expert. In this role, she relishes the chance to mentor her colleagues, sharing her wealth of experience and wisdom. Shannen takes great pride in ensuring that everyone she encounters has a wonderful day, just as she does, creating a ripple of positivity that echoes throughout the team and into the hearts of those they serve.

What sessions Shannen does:

Shannen is not just a passionate advocate for animals; she is also a dynamic facilitator of science workshops that promise to be both exhilarating and immersive. Her sessions are a whirlwind of creativity and discovery, from thrilling experiments that create spectacular explosions and fizzy messes for children to delightful soap-making activities in care homes. Shannen’s enthusiasm knows no bounds, as she crafts unique experiences that transform learning into playful adventures.

Her animal workshops are equally captivating. They cover a wide array of topics, including nocturnal creatures, intricate food chains, diverse habitats, and so much more. Each workshop is infused with her infectious energy and radiant smile, ensuring that every participant feels engaged and inspired.

Shannen takes her workshops beyond the classroom walls, bringing her expertise to care homes, private parties, holiday parks, and community events. Wherever she goes, she leaves a trail of excitement and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of science and nature.

What is her favourite animal/animals?

Shannen’s all-time favourite animals are vultures, stunning birds of prey renowned for their remarkable survival instincts. Having worked closely with these fascinating creatures for many years, Shannen has developed a deep affection for them, making vultures one of her most cherished animals. She is passionate about changing people's commonly negative perceptions of these majestic birds. Shannen strives to show others that vultures possess unique personalities that often contrast with how they are portrayed in TV shows and movies. In her eyes, they are gentle beings who can form heartfelt connections.

Amid her personal menagerie of animals that she showcases in her workshops, Icarus, her Crested Gecko, stands out as her absolute favourite. Rescued a few years ago, Icarus has grown stronger and more confident under Shannen's loving care. Watching him thrive means the world to her, as he now enjoys a happy, fulfilling life filled with love and companionship. Through this bond, Shannen finds immense joy in nurturing Icarus and sharing their journey.

What started her love for animals?

Shannen's love for animals has been a defining aspect of her life, rooted in a sense of wonder that she has carried since childhood. While she isn't quite sure where this passion originated, it blossomed as she immersed herself in the captivating worlds brought to life by David Attenborough's documentaries and Steve Irwin's adventurous escapades. Their respectful and compassionate interactions with wildlife ignited a spark in her, fostering a deep respect for all living creatures.

At just 11 years old, Shannen eagerly began volunteering at local animal sanctuaries, finding joy in caring for various animals—from playful dogs to shy rabbits and larger animals. This hands-on experience deepened her knowledge and forged meaningful connections with animals that transcended words. Her journey took a thrilling turn as she entered the fascinating realm of zookeeping, where she specialised in the awe-inspiring world of birds of prey, learning about their unique behaviours and their vital role in our ecosystems.

Driven by her adventurous spirit, Shannen later ventured to Africa, where she worked closely with vultures. This experience opened her eyes to the critical importance of these often-misunderstood creatures and the intricate balance of nature they represent. Her travels fuelled her desire to make a difference, leading her to Wild Science, where she is dedicated to educating and inspiring others about the wonders of the natural world.

Shannen believes that every animal, no matter how small or seemingly ordinary, holds a wealth of intrigue and significance. She feels an exhilarating sense of happiness whenever surrounded by wildlife, knowing there is so much left to explore and learn in life's vast, interconnected web. With each encounter, she is reminded of the beauty and complexity of nature, a passion that continues to drive her journey of discovery and advocacy for conservation.