Matthew Zylstra

Matthew Zylstra, PhD is an ecologist, lecturer and facilitator focusing on human~nature connectedness. His transdisciplinary research has entwined ecology, environmental psychology, and education in support of deep learning and wellbeing. He is a keen naturalist, especially in coastal and marine ecosystems. Matthew’s PhD dissertation on meaningful nature experience, nature connectedness and its role in transformative education is freely available for download here »

Browsing All Posts By Matthew Zylstra

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Eagle owl in action

Stunning high definition slow motion footage of an eagle owl honing down on its prey ...
On October 22, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Don’t kill the messenger!

Concerns are sometimes expressed about how indigenous perceptions of certain animals acting as a ‘sign’ or ‘omen’ for an ...
On October 19, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Buffalo injures Baviaanskloof campers

By Mariska Spoormaker, Die Burger Port Elizabeth (SA) – A Somerset West man has told how an enraged buffalo ...
On September 8, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Nature reconnection Player style

South Africa’s popular ‘50|50′ television programme recently ran an interview with the ageing but ever lucid and inspirational Dr. ...
On June 11, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Awe comes with orcas

Where’s my Whale? Yesterday in Plettenberg Bay! Many savour the rare and special sighting of orcas coming in close ...
On April 27, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Mantis vs mouse: Digital divide

Ever seen a praying mantis attack a 'mouse'? No, neither had we. Until this bizarre moment ...
On March 30, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Somewhere under a rainbow

An experiential training workshop was run for members of the Baviaanskloof Nature Awareness Group between 4th-7th March. The purpose ...
On March 9, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Crocodile cuddles

Known as the 'Crocodile Man', Costa Rican animal lover 'Chito' swims, plays and even feeds 'Pocho' the giant ...
On January 26, 2011 / By Matthew Zylstra
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Catalyzing an ecological conscience

Current education systems do little to support finding an “ecological conscience.” Author James Swan suggests an alternative pathway ...
On November 28, 2010 / By Matthew Zylstra
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The ‘SSS’ of natural learning

The Wildlands Studies –South Africa (WS-SA) course recently came to a close. As lead instructor for the six-week ...
On November 11, 2010 / By Matthew Zylstra