About Susanna Ramsey

I studied Classics at Oxford University and worked for many years in the financial services industry. Originally I wanted to be an archaeologist or work in a museum. I have now combined my growing interest in natural history with my old fascination for bones and collections to set up The Nature Collection.

I had walked in Richmond Park for more than twenty years without really noticing the wildlife there. It was just a place to unwind. Then a few years ago, out walking with my daughter, I discovered some deer bones in the bracken. I contacted the Friends of Richmond Park and subsequently obtained special permission from The Royal Parks to build up a nature collection for educational purposes.

I read all kinds of books about British wildlife, focusing in particular on animal tracks, bones and feathers. After weeks of searching I found my first owl pellet and now have a collection of pellets from different birds of prey. I have collected hundreds of feathers, ranging from a tiny wren to a tawny owl and all kinds of bones, from woodpeckers to pygmy shrew to deer. Wildlife photography is one of my favourite past times and I have taken thousands of photos in Richmond Park of the mammals, birds, insects, fungi, trees and flowers.

The Royal Parks' Head of Ecology and other wildlife experts have helped me identify any items I cannot place. I have also referred some finds to The Natural History Museum, The Mammal Society and The Barn Owl Trust. I have just written a book of 'Family Trails in Richmond Park', published by the Friends of Richmond Park.