Naturalists | 11.04.24
Day Scott
Nocs Naturalists
Introduce yourself and what you’re up to…
Hi, I’m Day. I’m a disabled wildlife biologist and student with a love for research, conservation, photography, and exploring wild places. During the school year, I’m buried deep in my studies and lab work. The summertime is my field season, you can find me traveling for research and squeezing in a few small trips to visit loved ones. When I’m not immersed in wildlife (which is pretty much all the time), I’m usually fixated on a few chill activities. Lately, I’ve been reading Harry Potter and perfecting the NYT chocolate chip cookie recipe.
You’ve had a busy last few months between fieldwork and conferences. Can you tell us what this is all about? How did you get into conversation work?
I had the incredible opportunity to go on a research expedition in the stunning Peruvian Andes this summer. My team, “The Snail Hunters”, road-tripped through the mountains in search of endemic land snails. My research combines ecology and evolutionary biology. I’m studying how land snails evolve and adapt in mainland (Andes) and islands (Galápagos) systems . In addition to traveling to Peru, I presented my research at a malacology conference in Los Angeles, where I won the Best Student Presenter Award.
We’re curious, why and when did your journey towards nature photography begin? You have quite the eye.
My journey into nature photography began in Southern California, specifically in the San Gabriel Mountains. Initially, I was fascinated by plants and wanted to photo document them so I could later identify the species. I had no idea I had a talent for it until years later, when I started sharing my photos on social media. To my surprise, they caught the attention of professional photographers. I never set out to become a wildlife conservation photographer—I was simply spending time in the wilderness, and the camera became a tool to capture those moments when my heart and lens aligned.
How has spending time outdoors impacted you and your take on life?
Spending time outdoors has positively influenced my life in many ways. The natural world shows us how everything is interconnected through its complexity and beauty. Whether I’m researching, relaxing, or adventuring, I feel a strong sense of belonging in the wilderness. Nature fuels my curiosity and drives my commitment to conservation. Additionally, nature has been essential to my ongoing rehabilitation from a traumatic brain injury, contributing to my overall well-being, including my resilience.
Do you have a most sublime moment in nature?
My most sublime moment in nature was definitely my research expedition in the Peruvian Andes this past summer. The sheer scale and beauty of the Andean landscape were breathtaking. I remember standing at 15,000 feet elevation, feeling completely immersed in the raw beauty of the environment. The experience was not just about the stunning vistas but also the cultural richness of the region. It was a powerful reminder of the wonders that nature holds and the incredible privilege of being able to explore, discover, and research in these remote and largely untouched places.
We’re stoked that Nocs are in your toolkit. In what situations do you find yourself grabbing your Nocs? How are they helping your craft?
As a conservation photographer, I’m definitely a multi-lens person, always seeking the best way to capture my surroundings. Having the Nocs has allowed me to see my environment up close and with incredible clarity. Their size, grip, weight, and sharpness are perfect for my needs. I love using them for travel and in my research expeditions, which have taken me to many habitats and environments across the Americas. Whether I’m observing wildlife from a distance or simply taking in the landscape, the Nocs help me connect more intimately with the scene before I even lift my camera. They’ve become an essential part of my toolkit, helping me frame my shots with precision and appreciate the finer details of nature.
If you could describe yourself as any creature or animal, what would it be?
Right now, I would describe myself as a land snail. Snails might seem like an unusual choice, but they resonate with me deeply. They move at their own pace, taking time to explore and fully experience their surroundings, just as I do in life and while exploring nature. Their strength in adapting to tough conditions encourages me to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles in my path.They also encourage me to embrace a slower, more deliberate approach to life and to find beauty in the journey, no matter how long it takes.
ANYTHING ON YOUR CALENDAR THAT YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO? WE’D LOVE TO STAY IN TOUCH! WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU THESE UPCOMING MONTHS?
Currently, I’m collaborating with the Irwin family and Australia Zoo as a judge for their annual conservation photography competition. I’m also co-authoring a book on inclusive conservation and exploring PhD programs.
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