Welcome to my series of interviews with some wonderful people who work within the natural world, from zoo keepers, to museum curators and everything in between and those that are on the path to working in these positions too. Be inspired for a future where you can combine your love of nature with your day job. I hope you enjoy these interviews, that you can learn something from them and they can inspire you.

Now let me introduce you to Maja.....

Name

Maja Petricic

Age

23

Location

Leominster, UK

What do you do?

I recently started working as an Insect Preparator (Entomologist) at the African Natural History Research Trust, based in Leominster, UK.

How did you get into it?

I loved insects since I was a kid. I was always bringing ‘creepy crawlies’ into my parents' house (which they weren’t very fond of). Over the years, that childhood curiosity turned into a lifelong passion for learning about these amazing creatures.

What made you want to do what you do?

Insects often go unnoticed, mostly because they’re small and misunderstood. But they’re incredible! They’re diverse, resourceful, and in many ways, not so different from us. They can farm, sing, dance, learn, and even play.

What does it involve?

My work mainly focuses on sorting and identifying insects—primarily butterflies and moths—collected by my colleagues during expeditions in Africa. This helps us discover new species and assess how common others are. It’s crucial work that supports conservation efforts and helps our African colleagues protect their natural habitats.

Did you need any qualifications?

For my role, having a bachelor’s degree in an environmental field was essential. I earned mine in Animal Sciences. However, since I wanted to get more into scientific research, I pursued a master’s in Taxonomy, Biodiversity, and Evolution. That really prepared me for the work I do now.

I also gained a lot of experience volunteering with wildlife conservation groups, doing invertebrate surveys, and handling data. For anyone looking to enter this field, volunteering is a great way to start!

Any tips for a young person that wants to do what you do?

Do not let anyone tell you that your dreams are impossible or unrealistic. If you are passionate enough about what you want to do, you can make it happen. Take part, volunteer, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice from professionals whose work inspires you. People working with animals are usually eager to help newcomers find their path.

What is the best part of what you do?

I get to work with some of the most stunning tropical moths and butterflies. Seeing their beautiful patterns and colours up close is truly magical—it’s a side of nature most people never get to witness.

What is the worst part of what you do?

While I love my job, most of my work involves preserved specimens in our museum collections. One day, I hope to join an expedition and see these remarkable creatures alive in their natural habitats.

What is your favourite animal?

Tarantulas! I have two, and they are so cool!

What was the first animal that you fell in love with?

An emperor moth! It’s a beautiful species found here in the UK during spring, with the most striking colours.

What is your favourite place in nature?

A wildflower meadow in midsummer. They’re alive with insects and butterflies, buzzing and dancing in the sunlight.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I really enjoy hiking, but also visiting local nature reserves, and doing some wildlife photography.

If you were not doing what you do now what else would you love to do?

I’d be a theoretical physicist! I’m fascinated by our universe and all its mysteries.

Who inspires you?

The people I work with! Whether at university or in my current role, I’ve met so many amazing people. Their passion and unique journeys motivate me to keep pushing forward.

What are your hopes for the future? 

I hope kids today have more opportunities to learn about nature than I did growing up. With the right support, a child’s curiosity can lead to incredible things.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about?

Insects aren’t my only interest! This summer, I had the incredible experience of working on turtle conservation in Cyprus, helping baby turtles hatch and find their way to the sea.

Where can people find you? 

Instagram: majapetricic, or if you only want to see some UK butterflies and moths: uk_lepidoptera

Email: [email protected]