Damh the Bard

Order of Bards Ovates and Druids (OBOD)

Today's Date: 12th April, 2007

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

Seeing my first deer rut at Petworth Park, Sussex, UK. As I walked into the park I could hear the stags roaring, and then the clashing of antlers. I've never felt so much testosterone in one place! I am a devotee of the old Pagan Horned God Herne, who is Lord of Animals, so this close encounter with the rutting deer really helped me to feel closer to him, and the wild.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?

The local woods I used to play in, just down my road. It's now under a housing estate.

Now? Mmmmm. I'd have to say anywhere out in nature, away from the sound of traffic, and other people.

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

My favourite animals are dogs. they are so expressive, loyal, yet independent. They are strong, and playful too.

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

Blimey, so many things I could say. I would say over population is a growing concern, it is a problem now, because there are so many of us consuming the earth's limited resources. Nature has been able to control populations in the past, but we've created so many drugs now that our lives and survival rate are unnatural.

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

Think about EVERY use of energy in your life, and make changes to cut it down, or change it into a more environmentally friendly form. Sadly I don't think enough people are taking notice, but in the end, when the oil and gas run out, then they'll have to sit up and open their eyes.