Young rewilder’s moth fascination sets him on a conservation path

When Daniel Harrison was 12 years old, he saved his pocket money for six months to buy a moth trap.

More than a decade later, his early fascination with wildlife continues to shape his journey towards a career in conservation.

The 23-year-old from Seaham is now Vice Chair of Climate Action North’s Young Rewilders Networking Group (YOUNG), where he supports other young people interested in nature while gaining the leadership skills and experience he hopes will help him become a nature reserve ranger.

Daniel’s interest in wildlife began when he was young. Lessons at primary school about Australia’s unique animals and the impact of climate change sparked his curiosity. His dad introduced him to birdwatching, while he and his brother spent hours reading books about animals and wildlife together. That curiosity eventually developed into a fascination with moths.

Daniel said: “I find moths just as beautiful as butterflies.”

He continues to carry out moth trapping in his garden and regularly goes birdwatching with his brother.

Daniel went on to study Physical Geography at Newcastle University, where he combined his academic interests with his enthusiasm for wildlife by completing his dissertation on moths. After graduating, he wanted to gain practical experience in conservation and connect with others working in the environmental sector.

Daniel’s journey with Climate Action North began with an unexpected meeting at RSPB Saltholme, where he met CEO Sharon Lashley. They discovered a surprising connection – Daniel’s grandmother had taught Sharon at school, and Sharon had been in the same class as Daniel’s mum.

Already familiar with Climate Action North’s work, Daniel accepted Sharon’s invitation to attend events including wildlife walks at Dalton Park, before joining the Young Rewilders Networking Group.

Since becoming involved with YOUNG, Daniel has taken on an increasingly active role. His enthusiasm and commitment to the network saw him join the committee and later become Vice Chair.

In this role, Daniel has helped organise YOUNG’s first moth trapping event, attended the Festival of Thrift alongside YOUNG Chair Bonnie Chapman, and contributed guest blogs for Climate Action North.

Climate Action North CEO Sharon Lashley said: “Daniel is a fantastic example of the passion, curiosity, and commitment that young people bring to the environmental sector. His enthusiasm for moths has even earned him the nickname ‘Mothman’. Through YOUNG, he has developed confidence, built valuable connections and gained experience that will support his future career in conservation.”

For Daniel, the network has also provided an opportunity to develop skills alongside his passion for wildlife.

He said: “Making connections and building experience are really important. YOUNG gives me the chance to develop skills like working with the public, which will be really useful in a future conservation role.”

Alongside his work with YOUNG, Daniel has gained hands-on conservation experience through volunteering.

With SeaScapes, he has helped survey dolphins and whales from Souter Lighthouse, carried out rocky shore surveys and recorded seaweed species. He has also volunteered with the National Trust, leading public walks focused on birds and running moth trapping activities.

His long-term ambition is to become a ranger at a nature reserve, combining fieldwork with helping others connect with wildlife.

He said: “My ideal job would be working as a ranger. I’d love to be out in the field carrying out wildlife surveys and helping people connect with nature.”

To get involved or sponsor YOUNG, email info@climateactionnortheast.org.uk

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