A scientist by inclination and training, Wilson studied zoology and then genetics, an area in which he worked for many years. While being a professional laboratory scientist he continued his interest in the natural world, especially invertebrates. A perfunctory change of career now sees Wilson running Bewdley Orchids, a conservation company which grows British native orchids for repopulating meadows and orchards. David grew up in the West Midlands at a time when there were still wild and messy pieces of countryside to explore. He has continued exploring nature for his whole life both professionally, as a research plant physiologist, and privately, as a keen botanist. He has grown a wildflower meadow in his garden for nearly 30 years and in retirement has taken up detailed investigation of this little piece of heaven. Instagram: @countrysketches