Naturalist | Writer | Presenter | Mental Health Advocate | Conservationist

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Hello, I’m James Cutting; a naturalist, writer, speaker, and mental health campaigner based in the beautiful county of Hampshire, UK. My lifelong passion for birds, especially wading birds (waders), drives much of my conservation work. I proudly sit on the Executive Committee of Wader Quest, a global charity dedicated to the protection of wader species.

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But I’m not just a birder; I’m an all-round nature enthusiast. I’m a trainee bird ringer, marine mammal surveyor, toad patroller, and dedicated contributor to wildlife monitoring and citizen science. I take part in various conservation and survey schemes across land and sea, recording and protecting the UK’s rich biodiversity.

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In 2011, I experienced a serious mental health breakdown. Since then, nature has become a central part of my healing and wellbeing. This website brings together my work in wildlife conservation, birding, and mental health advocacy, offering insights, inspiration, and resources for anyone looking to connect more deeply with the natural world.

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Published Work & Writing

I’ve been writing since childhood. Today, I share stories and articles both here on my blog and in a range of respected publications, including:

• Birdwatching Magazine

• Wader Quest

• Hampshire Ornithological Society

• Introvert Magazine

• Birder Clothing

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Topics I cover include:

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• The role of AI in birding

• Disturbance of shorebirds

• The mental health benefits of nature

• Field tips and species profiles

• Personal reflections from the wild

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I’m always open to writing commissions, collaborations, and new projects. Get in touch if you'd like to work together.

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Walks, Talks & Public Events

You can also find me out in the field leading public nature walks, particularly around the New Forest, Hampshire coast, and local harbours. I deliver talks on everything from bird ID courses to species-specific presentations and nature’s impact on mental wellbeing. Visit the Events page for my upcoming schedule.

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Partnerships & Affiliations

I’ve worked with leading nature brands, including:

• Birda - brand ambassador and active user for recording birding sessions

• Zeiss Optics – product tester for their Conquest HDX range and daily user of Zeiss Conquest binoculars

• Eyebrook Wild Bird Feeds - Using these incredible seeds direct from the Eyebrook farm to the delight of the birds in my garden​

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Let’s connect!

Whether you're here to explore conservation stories, find mental health support through nature, or join me in the field, I'm glad you're here.
Follow me on social media for updates, insights, and moments from the wild. And if you'd like to collaborate or say hello, drop me a message.