Understanding urban wildlife and our place in nature with Dr Darryl Jones

Darryl grew up on a little farm near Wagga, making his own fun among animals. He became patient and observant, allowing animals to do their own thing, which shaped his curiosity. As a child, Darryl’s fascination with animals grew. Digging up burrowing frogs and watching blue tongues in his mother’s garden inspired his interest. He emerged with a desire to learn more and observe.At fifteen, Darryl cared for a magpie named Jimmy after a storm. A painful experience with a local bully and Jimmy’s fate became a turning point, sparking his fixation for knowledge.Darryl went to university and found his interest in urban wildlife. Initially, others did not understand or value his studies, but he believed learning about animals living with us was worth doing.He was a pioneer in studying urban wildlife, discovering the richness of birds in cities. He focused on comparing urban versions of species like magpies with their “wild cousins” and encouraged native plant landscaping.Darryl loved teaching students, even leading transformative trips to Borneo. He inspired many to connect with nature and turn ordinary people into fanatics, always focusing on the importance of everyday engagement.Darryl believes we are all part of nature. Connecting closely with wildlife from backyard tadpoles to magpies is vital for well-being and understanding our place within nature’s fate. He promotes local native landscaping.He recently 'retired' to devote himself to full-time writing. He am committed to encouraging people to connect with the natural world in whatever way they can.Website: darryljonesnature.comBooks (all published by New South Publishing):The Birds at My Table. 2018.Feeding the Birds at Your Table. 2019.Curlews on Vulture Street. 2022,A Clouded Leopard in the Middle of the Road. 2022.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly,The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd