‍Name:

‍Anthony Hearn

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‍Position:

‍Co-Founder / Managing Director / Chairperson

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‍Role:

‍Guides & plans meetings, Collating data/data analysis, social media, fundraising, research, outreach, education.

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‍Biography:

‍I believe I was born with the fascination and appreciation I have for all creatures on Earth. My first memories as a child are of animals or zoo trips or the rumour that a crocodile lived at the local pond. I still carry this fascination and obsession with me to the present day.

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‍I began my professional career in the animal care industry in 2003, starting out as a sales assistant for an aquatic retailer. In 2006, I graduated from the Berkshire College of Agriculture with the highest achievable grade. After graduating, I returned to the aquatics company in a full-time role and eventually progressed into a hands-on position focused on animal care and livestock acquisition.

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‍By mid-2010, I felt ready for a new challenge and made the bold decision to move to Finland. After spending a year working various temporary jobs, I was accepted onto a government-funded language programme. This course gave me both the skills and the confidence to approach organisations offering practical work placements, which ultimately led to an internship at SeaLife Helsinki Aquarium.

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‍Soon after, I was introduced to staff at Helsinki Zoo, where I later secured employment. This marked the beginning of my career as a zoo keeper and, six years later, influenced my decision to return to the UK.

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‍In 2016, my greatest source of inspiration arrived with the birth of my son, Kai. By the end of 2017, I had become a stay-at-home father while also taking on part-time work as a farm hand at a local children’s farm. After a year of balancing parenting with part-time work, I went on to become Head Keeper and Park Manager.

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‍After a few spells in other farm and zoo management positions, I decided to take a much-needed break from the industry to focus on being a father to Kai. I currently work in a veterinary practice as well as managing Eyes On The Wild.

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‍Favourite Capture: 

‍I love our very first capture of 3 pigs, because it made the project REAL. I’ve always had a special fondness for big cats; consequently, my other favourites include the Sumatran Clouded Leopard (Endangered) and Asiatic Golden Cat (Near Threatened). Moreover, I always enjoy anything including birds, especially our Spiderhunter capture! We position the cameras with the primary aim of capturing mammals, so it’s such a surprise when they make an appearance. Although the Spiderhunter’s IUCN status is Least Concern, it’s considered rare to see them in the Isau Isau region. I love it when birds surprise us!

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‍Favourite Animal:

‍European Bison