To celebrate the work of wildlife-loving birders, Happy Beaks caught up with Adam Olliver, also known as @therobinwhisperer. A passionate photographer, conservationist, naturalist, and award-winning golf course greenkeeper, Adam shares his journey from befriending robins to protecting species like skylarks and short-eared owls.
How did you first get interested in bird watching?
I got into bird watching when I became friends with a robin redbreast, and that inspired me to buy my first camera back in 2017. I’m very passionate about the natural world, and my work as a greenkeeper helps to keep me involved in wildlife conservation during work hours as well as in my personal time. That robin really made me fall in love with birds and wildlife even more than I already was.
What’s your favourite bird?
The robin redbreast is my all-time favourite bird. I had a little robin friend for around 18 months. He had my full attention, and I was obsessed with watching him and his behaviour. That led me to observe and learn about other UK bird species – and even more so about robins in particular. I have since befriended other robins, every year or two.
What are your top tips for successful birding?
- Feed birds all year round: I personally put food out for the birds all year round, usually more in the winter and less during the summer.
- Watch in spring for peak activity: The best time for watching and observing birds is during the spring, when they’re very active and busy building nests and taking care of their young.
- Use your phone to capture wildlife moments: I do own a quality camera with a zoom lens that I use often, and it’s amazing for close-up photography – but honestly, I get most of my best video content on my mobile phone, since it’s always to hand!
How has birdwatching impacted your life?
Birdwatching brings me peace, happiness and relaxation. Whenever I need time away from the real world, I head outside into nature with my camera to do some birdwatching – or to watch any wildlife, for that matter.
Tell us about your conservation work
I’m currently involved in skylark and short-eared owl protection projects, which include monitoring, recording, and protecting the birds. I was named Conservation Greenkeeper of the Year in 2022 and was a finalist in the 2025 Golf Environment Awards for my conservation efforts on the golf course.
For more incredible wildlife shots from the golf course and beyond, follow Adam on Instagram (@therobinwhisperer) and Facebook (The Robin Whisperer).
You can read about other inspiring birders in our ‘Featured Bird Watcher’ series. If you want to encourage more birds into your garden, read our helpful bird food guide before stocking up on specialist bird seed mixes to attract specific species.
 shares his journey from befriending robins to protecting skylarks and owls.){kind=link}