Sophie Zaslona

 Meet our Animal Expert and Nutty Professor Sophie – Covering South West and West of England and South of Wales

About Sophie:

Meet Sophie, one of our dedicated Animal Experts and Nutty Professor. She is our enthusiastic nature advocate at Wild Science. With a vibrant passion for art and writing, she finds joy in expressing her creativity through various media. A true explorer at heart, Sophie loves spending time outdoors, immersing herself in the beauty of nature.

One of Sophie’s greatest passions is birdwatching. She delights in observing their behaviours and identifying different species, which deepens her appreciation for wildlife. Additionally, her commitment to wildlife rehabilitation reflects her compassionate nature, as she dedicates time to learning about the care of injured or abandoned animals and the intricate details of their recovery.

Beyond her work with wildlife, Sophie is also a valued member of the NHS, where she applies her nurturing spirit in a healthcare setting. Managing her time between two demanding roles, she ensures that each receives her full attention and care, demonstrating her exceptional ability to juggle responsibilities while maintaining a positive impact in both fields. Sophie's kindness and dedication inspire those around her, making her a cherished part of our team.

What area does Sophie cover?

If you're wondering where to find Sophie, look no further than the South West and West of England, where she brings her engaging workshops to various locations. Rather than limiting herself to a handful of venues, Sophie travels extensively, venturing across the stunning landscapes from the rugged coastline of Devon to the lush greenery of Somerset and the charming market towns of Gloucestershire. Her workshops are a delightful blend of animal interaction and scientific exploration, capturing the attention and imagination of all participants.

But Sophie's journey doesn't end in England. She also crosses into South Wales, where her enthusiasm resonates in vibrant cities such as Cardiff, Swansea, and Carmarthen. Each workshop is crafted not just to educate but to inspire a love for the animal kingdom and the wonders of science. With every endeavour, Sophie aims to spread joy and knowledge far and wide, ensuring that her passion leaves a lasting impression on her audience. She fosters a sense of community and curiosity wherever she goes, making her workshops a genuinely enriching experience for everyone involved.

Sophie’s favourite part of working for Wild Science:

We asked Sophie what her favourite part of work was. She said:

One of the most extraordinary aspects of her journey is the opportunity to explore a multitude of places, each with its own distinct character and a rich tapestry of wildlife that surrounds it. As she travels from one picturesque town to another, she immerses herself in the local atmosphere, where the symphony of nature—birds chirping, leaves rustling, and water flowing—creates an unforgettable backdrop.

Equally captivating are the moments when she witnesses the unexpected bond that forms between people and animals, especially with those they initially perceive with scepticism. A prime example is her beloved snake, a creature often misunderstood. Many individuals come to her with preconceived notions about snakes, viewing them as sinister or unfriendly. However, she has seen the remarkable transformation when they allow curiosity to replace fear.

As they tentatively approach her snake, their expressions of trepidation gradually evolve into delight. The moment they decide to touch its smooth, incredible body, it’s as if a light bulb flicks on—their initial fears dissolve, replaced by an awe-inspiring appreciation for the creature’s elegance and grace. Witnessing this shift from dread to affection reveals the power of connection between humans and animals and the potential for growth and understanding in embracing the unfamiliar. Such experiences enrich her travels, leaving her with stories that celebrate the beauty of nature and the bonds that can form in unexpected ways.

Sophie’s experience with Wild Science:

Sophie is one of our newest experts, having joined the Wild Science family at the very start of 2025. From the moment she stepped through our doors, she has fit in seamlessly, as if she’s been part of our team for years. It’s been a delight to watch her connect with fellow enthusiasts who share her passion for all things weird and wonderful in the animal kingdom. In a world where many creatures often go unnoticed or unloved, our team stands out for their deep appreciation of every big and small creature.

Sophie has effortlessly embraced her role with the professionalism of a seasoned veteran. She enthusiastically approaches every challenge and is always eager to expand her knowledge and contribute even more to her team. Her infectious curiosity and dedication have already made a significant impact on our vibrant community.

What sessions does Sophie do?

Sophie is an enthusiastic and versatile workshop leader who embraces every opportunity to share her passions, whether delving into the captivating world of science or exploring the wonders of animals. Her workshops are thrilling adventures designed to ignite curiosity and inspire new interests.

When it comes to science, Sophie’s creativity knows no bounds and is a true Nutty Professor. She transforms her workshops into magical experiences, from the enchanting effects of dry ice that conjure the atmosphere of a witch’s lair to engaging “Science of Nature” sessions where participants use everyday items from the environment to conduct hands-on experiments. Each session is a unique blend of fun and education, ensuring that everyone leaves excited about what they’ve learned.

Sophie also offers animal workshops that cover a wide range of topics, for all things related to the animal kingdom giving her the title Animal Expert. She is passionate about fostering a deeper understanding of our furry, feathered, and scaly friends, whether it's sharing intriguing facts, teaching classification methods, or engaging participants with interactive discussions. Her workshops take her far and wide—Sophie brings her engaging style to birthday parties, schools, care homes, and various community events. No matter the venue, her infectious enthusiasm and dedication make each experience memorable and educational, ensuring that participants of all ages walk away with newfound knowledge and joy.

What is her favourite animal/animals?

In Sophie’s eyes, every animal is remarkable, but she feels a special enchantment for insects and birds. It’s their incredible diversity that captivates her—the dazzling array of colours and unique shapes that make each species distinct. Sophie takes great joy in observing the myriad traits that set these creatures apart, as no two are ever exactly alike.

She curates a wide variety of insects in her collection, revelling in the sheer wonder of these creepy crawlies. Her favourite is the Spiny Stick Insect. With their extraordinary camouflage, these fascinating creatures blend seamlessly with sticks and leaves, a marvel that showcases nature's artistry. Their impressive defence mechanisms only add to their intrigue, making them a delight to study.

Sophie harbours a dream of one day contributing to the conservation of endangered birds and butterflies. She envisions helping breed these creatures, which could bolster their populations and help ensure the survival of these beautiful species, driven by her passion for the natural world and its wonders.

What started her love for animals?

Sophie’s love for animals blossomed in her early childhood, rooted in her insatiable curiosity as she explored the garden, unearthing and collecting various fascinating bugs. Her keen observations of their intricate characteristics and unique movements ignited a lifelong passion. But her compassion didn’t end there; Sophie dedicated herself to helping rehome stray cats, ensuring they found warm, loving families that would cherish them.

As her fascination with animals continued to grow, Sophie decided to pursue her studies at college. There, she discovered a newfound appreciation for reptiles—a group she had never considered before. This deeper understanding expanded her love for the animal kingdom, revealing the beauty in creatures she once overlooked.

Sophie’s kindness shines through in her commitment to rescuing a diverse range of unwanted or injured animals. She carefully rehabilitates them, working tirelessly to restore their well-being and confidence, helping them return to their original selves. She feels unparalleled joy when witnessing these fantastic creatures regain their health and happiness. It brings her a profound sense of accomplishment and fulfilment, knowing she is making a tangible difference in their lives and transforming their little worlds for the better.