Do You Ever See Wild Animals?

On our little patch of land in the mid-north of South Australia, situated at the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, we see wild animals every single day. It’s a privilege, and a constant reminder of the interconnectedness between humans and nature. This daily interaction not only inspires my artwork and kids’ books but also fuels my commitment to rehabilitating our land into a haven for wildlife while transforming it into a sustainable hobby farm.

Do you ever see wild animals?

We share our land with an incredible array of native creatures, from the majestic to the tiny and unnoticed. About ten kangaroos call our property home, and seeing them graze at dawn or leap across the horizon fills me with awe. We also encounter the powerful eastern brown snake—a reminder of the need for mutual respect in our shared environment—and the more approachable sleepy and blue-tongue lizards basking in the sun.

The air is alive with the calls of kookaburras, magpie larks, and apostle birds, alongside the chatter of galahs and cockatoos. Above us, eagles and hawks soar majestically, while microbats flit silently at dusk, playing a vital role in insect control. Even the ground teems with life: massive earthworms enrich our soil, ants create intricate colonies, and frogs add their melodies to the night.

And then there are the trapdoor spiders—masters of stealth, engineering, and survival. Their presence is a testament to the complexity of the ecosystems we’re part of.

Nature’s Inspiration for Art and Stories

Each of these creatures inspires my work in unique ways. For instance:

• Kangaroos remind me of resilience and adaptability, often reflected in the characters I create.
• Kookaburras and their iconic laughter inspire themes of community and joy.
• The intricate patterns of lizard scales inform the designs in my art, from op art patterns to detailed illustrations.
• The microbats’ nocturnal habits inspired my Hypno Bat designs.

By weaving these animals into my art and stories, I aim to raise awareness about the importance of conserving them and their habitats.

Farming in Harmony with Wildlife

Rehabilitating our farmland is a labor of love. We’re slowly turning it into a space where we can grow our own food while creating a sanctuary for wildlife. This involves:

• Planting native flora to provide food and shelter for animals.
• Minimising chemical use to protect soil health and insects like bees and ants.
• Leaving sections of our land untouched to ensure that animals like frogs and lizards have safe spaces to thrive.

For me, farming and conservation go hand in hand. A healthy ecosystem is the foundation of sustainable farming, and seeing wildlife flourish on our land reassures me that this balance is possible.

Why It Matters

Animal conservation isn’t just a theme in my art; it’s a way of life. By sharing my experiences and stories, I hope to inspire others to think about how they can live more harmoniously with the natural world. Whether through planting a wildlife-friendly garden, supporting conservation efforts, or simply appreciating the creatures around them, every small effort counts.

Our land, like my art, is a canvas. With care, patience, and love, we’re creating a space where nature and creativity thrive together—a reminder that conservation and creation are two sides of the same coin.

What wild animals do you see where you live? How do they inspire you?