What Is a Naturalist?
I’ve been a naturalist for several years and it has totally changed how I see and interact with the world.
But what is a naturalist?
A naturalist is someone who slows down and who pays attention to nature — not just reading about it, but really seeing it. You don't need a degree or learn every Latin name for a tree.
If you've ever stopped to watch a butterfly do its thing, wondered what that funky mushroom is about, or just vibed with some birdsong, you're already on it.
And yeah, this is for everybody. Kids, elders, city folks, country folks.
Honestly, children make some of the dopest naturalists because they’re curious, fearless, and always asking questions adults forgot how to ask.
That wonder they have? That's the whole thing right there.
How to Think Like a Naturalist (5 Easy Ways to Start)
Slow down and look closer
Notice the small stuff.
Bug trails, the way leaves catch light, a bird doing its call.
Nature’s out here performing, and most folks are missing the show.
Keep track somehow
Jot things down in a journal or use an app.
Sketch something wobbly. Snap a pic.
Doesn’t have to be deep — just make it yours. What you saw, how it made you feel, what you heard.
Ask questions
Don't know what something is?
Look it up. Apps like iNaturalist or Seek are clutch for IDs.
Don’t worry about being wrong. Curiosity is the whole point.
Link up with others
Join a bird count or nature survey.
It's cool to contribute to actual science and it’s fun to build community
Just be present
Sit still for a minute outside.
Breathe.
What do you hear? What do you smell? What do you feel? Let nature pull you back to earth.
Nature in Your Pocket: Apps/websites That Actually Help
iNaturalist
A worldwide community of nature folks and scientists. Snap a pic, get it identified, and actually help with real research. Pretty dope.
www.inaturalist.org
Seek by iNaturalist
The kid-friendly version — no account needed. Point your camera and boom, instant ID. Perfect for families and beginners.
Merlin Bird ID
From Cornell Lab. Identifies birds by photo or sound. Works whether you're in the city or out in the country.
PictureThis
Super easy plant ID with good visual breakdowns and care tips. Free version works, premium has more features.
Apps & Communities for BIPOC + Everyone Who Deserves to Be Outdoors
Outdoor Afro (Community hub, not an ID app)
Celebrating Black folks in nature and the outdoors. Find events, get inspired, connect with community. Check them out: [outdoorafro.org]
Birdability
All about making birding accessible for people with different mobility and sensory needs. Really solid resource.
BlackAFinSTEM's #BlackBirdersWeek (Mostly Instagram)
An annual celebration of Black scientists and nature lovers. Representation, education, and straight-up joy in the outdoors.