Wellbeing and wildlife

I’ve always loved being outdoors and surrounded by nature. It allows me to combine my passion for wildlife observation with my day-to-day job.

For me, working outside was the only option when I left school. Working outdoors allows me to combine my passion for wildlife observation with my day-to-day job. Fresh air, open space and natural surroundings remove stress from my day and always bring a smile to my face.

Wildlife, conservation and wellbeing

Throughout my career, I’ve taken part in various wildlife and conservation projects. Two in particular - the Nestbox Project and Operation Pollinator - have been especially rewarding. These initiatives benefit wildlife and the environment, but they also give me a deep sense of purpose and connection to nature.

Building bird boxes brings a real sense of achievement, knowing I’m doing something practical to support wildlife. In spring, when I check the boxes and see young birds thriving, there’s no better feeling. Through bird ringing, I’ve formed an even closer connection to nature - sometimes I even chat to the birds as I work!

Recently, I began volunteering with a local wildlife rescue charity in Lincolnshire. In September, I helped release a kestrel that had flown into a glass door and recovered through rehabilitation. Watching it soar back into the wild was unforgettable - I walked away on a real happiness high.

“Being so close to wildlife really improves my wellbeing.”

Volunteer voices

I spoke to fellow volunteers about how conservation work supports their well-being. Neil Jennings is a ranger at Wicken Fen Nature Reserve in Cambridgeshire, and Jess Raynor volunteers at a wildlife rescue centre here in Lincolnshire.

Neil believes conservation gives people a sense of purpose: “You’re contributing to something meaningful - not financially, but emotionally and environmentally. It brings peace, pride and personal satisfaction.”

Jess agrees: “Modern life is so fast and structured. Getting outside and doing something real with wildlife is grounding. It reminds us what truly matters.”

Nature’s healing power

Time in nature is known to benefit mental health, something both Neil and Jess understand well.

Neil explains: “Immersing yourself in nature gives you a unique kind of calm. You slow down, observe, breathe - it’s like a mental reset.”

Jess, who lives with ADHD and fibromyalgia, finds nature therapeutic: “The outdoors calms my mind and reduces pain. Even a short walk restores my focus, improves my sleep and lifts my mood. Nature is my therapy.”

Conservation and community

For both Neil and Jess, conservation is about more than wildlife - it’s about community.

Neil says conservation gives people something positive to be part of: “It offers hope for the future. You know you’re helping, even in a small way.”

Jess volunteers with Wild Things Rescue, transporting and fostering injured animals: “It can be tiring, but knowing I’m making a difference keeps me going. My garden has become a wildlife haven - this year I’ve had elephant hawk-moth caterpillars and even hummingbird hawk-moths for the first time!”

Wildlife and mental health

Jess believes strongly in the emotional power of animals: “Animals don’t judge. They just exist alongside you. Helping frightened animals heal brings pride and happiness. Even after a long day, I walk away happier than I arrived.”

Greenkeepers and wellbeing

I also spoke with greenkeepers in our industry about the impact of outdoor work on mental health.

Mick Davie - Retired Head Greenkeeper: “Working outside with nature is amazing for mental health. Some of my happiest memories are early mornings on the course with the dawn chorus. But the pressure from golfers and expectations can become overwhelming - I went through a serious mental health crisis. Now I’m retired, I’ve rediscovered nature and that peace I once had as a young man.”

Peter Moore - Courses Director, Woodhall Spa Golf Club: “Being outdoors every day brings huge mental and physical health benefits. I love watching the seasons change and the wildlife that lives on the course. Yes, the job is demanding, but the camaraderie and shared purpose among greenkeepers make all the difference.”

Final thoughts

Time in nature is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to improve well-being. Whether it’s birdsong at dawn, ocean waves or fox tracks in fresh snow, nature has a way of grounding us.

Working on a golf course brings daily access to the outdoors, but the role can also be demanding. It’s vital to look after yourself and speak out if you’re struggling. Mental health matters.

Last year, I completed a Mental Health Awareness course and became a qualified Mental Health First Aider. I’m always happy to talk to anyone who needs a chat.

Support is available from organisations such as Samaritans, Andy’s Man Club, and local community groups like BRO PRO in Lincolnshire.