Education Associate at Wildlife Sense
1. From Teaching to Turtles
Charlie’s path to sea turtle conservation wasn’t a straight line—it started in the classroom. As a qualified teacher specializing in children with complex Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs, she always had a passion for education. But in 2018, a volunteer experience with Wildlife Sense changed everything. “I loved working with the team and learning about sea turtles,” she says. In 2020, she made the leap and moved to Kefalonia, where she now helps run the nonprofit’s education program.
2. The Work That Inspires
For Charlie, every day at Wildlife Sense is different, but the passion of the team remains the same. “The team is so dedicated to conservation and problem-solving to protect the sea turtles and their habitats,” she shares. She thrives in the constant learning environment—whether it’s about sea turtles, Posidonia seagrass, environmental science, or conservation technology.
One of her most exhilarating moments? “A morning survey during nesting season—finding adult female tracks and potentially discovering a nest to protect is extremely exciting!”
3. The Subtle Signs of Climate Change
Charlie hasn’t been in Kefalonia long enough to fully track climate shifts, but she’s noticed some changes. “The last few summers have been hotter and drier,” she observes. Even the Loggerhead sea turtles’ nesting behaviors seem to be shifting—incubation periods are changing, and the first mating sightings are happening earlier than before.
4. Conservation Over Tourism
When asked how Wildlife Sense balances conservation with tourism, Charlie is clear: “Our focus is conservation, not attracting visitors.” The nonprofit prioritizes protecting the turtles and their habitats, ensuring that education and research come first.
5. Hope in a Changing World
Despite the challenges of climate change, Charlie remains hopeful. “The amount of people from all over the world who show a willingness to get involved is incredible,” she says. Volunteers, conservationists, and especially the younger generation give her confidence that environmental action is gaining momentum.
6. How You Can Help
Charlie believes that small daily actions make a big difference. She shares practical ways visitors and readers can contribute:
💧 Conserve water and energy—turn off taps and lights when not in use
🛍️ Shop second-hand—buy from charity shops to reduce waste
🗑️ Do a litter pick up—even two minutes of cleanup helps keep oceans cleaner
🌍 Reduce plastic waste—opt for reusable bags and containers
🍽️ Eat locally and seasonally—support sustainable food choices
☀️ Use coral-safe sunscreen—protect marine ecosystems
🐢 Respect nesting beaches—fill in sand holes, knock down sandcastles, and avoid the beach at night
Above all, she stresses the power of education. “If we understand our environment, we’ll be more willing—and more knowledgeable—about how to protect it.”
Stay up to date with Charlie and Wildlife Sense through…
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildlifeSense/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlifesense/ (@WildlifeSense)
My Ecological Odyssey 