Dr. Will Hawkes

Dr. Will Hawkes (UK) is an entomologist, insect migration scientist, macro photographer and conservation storyteller from North Wales. Fascinated by insects for as long as he can remember, Will has dedicated his work to uncovering the remarkable journeys of some of the smallest and most overlooked creatures on Earth. His research has taken him to major insect migration hotspots across Europe, including the Pyrenees, Cyprus and the Strait of Gibraltar, where he studies the millions of insects traveling thousands of kilometers between continents.

A camera is almost always by Will’s side. Alongside helping him document and identify species, photography allows him to reveal the hidden behaviors, extraordinary journeys and ecological importance of insects to a wider audience. His intimate macro images are shaped by a deep knowledge of his subjects and a lifetime spent observing how insects live, move and interact. For Will, understanding and caring about the creature in front of the lens is one of the most important parts of creating a meaningful photograph.

By combining science, photography and storytelling, Will hopes to inspire greater curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. He believes that sharing the wonder of insects is one of our most valuable conservation tools: when people discover their stories, they are more likely to understand, value and protect them. Through scientific research, talks, publications and public outreach — including work featured by TED and The Guardian — Will brings the extraordinary world of these tiny travelers to audiences around the world.