My Perfect Day: Simon King
Simon King is a world-renowned wildlife cameraman and a regular presenter for the BBC’s Springwatch and Big Cat Diary. He took a break from filming in Africa to talk to walk…
Where would you wake up on your perfect day? On an ideal morning I would wake up in either Shetland or the Masai Mara. Although they are very different locations, they both have two of the things I love: sense of space and wilderness.
Have you got a favourite walk? I love to explore remote areas of Britain, but if I had to choose a favourite walk it would be the coastline of Sumburgh Head in the Shetlands.
Who would you choose as your ideal walking companion? Me! No, it’s not vanity. It’s just that I love to focus on the sights and sounds around me on my walks, and company – although fun – can be a distraction.
What animal would you most like to encounter when walking? I have seen many beautiful creatures in the wild, but bumping into a wolf is something very special. Having filmed them in the Arctic, I’m familiar with their enigmatic and mercurial spirit.
Are there any animals you dislike? No, there aren’t. But perhaps human beings sometimes…
Is there a country you haven’t been to? Oh, there are loads of places I still want to visit. But I’m working on it!
What’s your favourite food and drink when on safari? I always travel with a hip flask of 10-year-old Ardbeg malt whisky and some biltong.
You’re now an OBE – what will you change about Britain with your new-found influence? I don’t think I will have any new great influence, but it is a wonderful honour.
You’ve done Springwatch and Autumnwatch – which season do you prefer? I love both, but at a pinch it would have to be autumn. It is a tougher and more challenging season for wildlife, and I always enjoy seeing the changing cast of wild characters as birds migrate around the world.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? When trying to spot wildlife, you can only be in one place at a time and you won’t see it if you’re not out there!
How do you stave off boredom on a long, lonely wildlife shoot? Boredom? What’s that?
If you weren’t a wildlife filmmaker, what would you be? I’m very drawn to the arts, so perhaps a musician or an artist.
How do you unwind? By going on a long nature walk. How lucky am I?!
Is there anyone to compare to David Attenborough? Definitely not. He’s unique and always will be.
Simon King (www.simonkingwildlife.com) is guest speaking at The Outdoors Show, 26-28 March. Pre-booked tickets for walk and walkmag.co.uk readers are just £11 (saving £7 on the door) when quoting ‘WALK2’. ✆ 01159 934439 www.outdoorsshowextra.co.uk
