Rupert
The author of over twenty books on various subjects, including herpetology and historical biographies.
Growing up in the vibrant landscapes of Kenya and Malawi, I was immersed in rich experiences that shaped my love and appreciation for the continent, its nature and its people.
My childhood was filled with encounters with fascinating wildlife, but it was reptiles that sparked a lifelong passion for these incredible creatures. From watching chameleons changing colour to observing snake behaviour, these moments instilled in me a deep respect for biodiversity and the importance of conservation.
Since becoming an author in 2002, I have dedicated my work to sharing these experiences and advocating for snake conservation rather than indiscriminate extermination.
I am a staunch campaigner against habitat destruction, the illegal wildlife trade and the damage we are doing to the environment.
Those of us who know him ...
“Rupert is never afraid to 'paddle his own canoe' as he pursues what he believes to be the right thing."
"He is extremely driven by his principles, either in the support of others or for a cause he believes in."
"Rupert is modest beyond belief and very dismissive about his own achievements, although what he has accomplished must not be underestimated."
"His work ethic is exceptional, and it is an inspiration to the rest of us mere mortals."
"To him, Mission Impossible tends to mean 'it may be possible, so let's try'. It's this determination that enables him to get things done."
Books
Proud to have signed a four-book deal with
Our Nguni Series is revolutionising field guides in Africa.
Reviews of the Nguni Series
STEPHEN SPAWLS
Author, herpetologist, and conservationist
Field Guide to the Snakes of Eswatini
Here is a volume dedicated solely to the 63 species of snake known from Eswatini. And what a super book it is. The maps are clear, the text succinct, up-to-date and accurate, the photographs are simply stunning. It’s an indispensable guide for all naturalists, educators and conservationists in the region, useful both in the field and on the desk.
ANDY MARTIN
Herpetologist and conservationist
Field Guide to the Snakes of Eswatini
I have read many field guides from various parts of the world over the past sixty years, and this is my favourite. It is an outstanding work and clearly, an enormous amount of passion, perseverance and hard work has gone into its creation. It sets a new standard for field guides, where the snakes are described and presented in a way that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. I thoroughly recommend this excellent new book.
Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
Prof. TAHAR SLIMANI
Field Guide to the Snakes of Eswatini
The scientific rigour, pedagogical clarity and aesthetic quality of this book will enable scientists, naturalists, managers and environmental defenders, as well as simple walkers, hikers and tourists, to discover the hidden beauty of these discreet species.
A Review of:
Field Guide to the Snakes of Malawi.
"Regional field guides bridge the gap between the scientific literature and general public. They synthesise and package a wealth of information into a predefined number of pages. This is no easy task. In order to do it effectively, it takes years, if not decades, of first-hand experience, and the ability to collate and summarise a wealth of data, often hidden within layers of scientific literature, and spread this knowledge across pages in the written word. I believe Rupert Wilkey and Sarah Nann have done a superb job in this regard with a Field Guide to the Snakes of Malawi.
In addition, the book is beautifully illustrated with clear photographs and technically sound illustrations, ensuring that the book will appeal to a wide audience, from hobby-naturalists to professional field guides, conservation managers and academic researchers. A particularly useful aspect is the range of full-body photographs and close-up detail of the head, which makes field identification a breeze, even for someone with little experience in snake identification.
I found the book to be visually enriching in terms of layout and styling, and I particularly appreciated the clear point-locality distribution maps. Whilst there is still much to learn about African snake distribution and species diversity, this book is very well represented in covering the snake fauna of Malawi.
In terms of layout sequence, I appreciate the fact that the highly venomous species are covered first. Each venomous species has a highlighted box covering “Bites”, which immediately draws the eye to this important section. This will be critically important in the event of a snakebite.
This book is more than just a field guide. There is a comprehensive section detailing habitat, natural history, conservation, predation and beliefs and superstitions. This book will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in African zoology and conservation and will further aid conservation efforts on a continent rapidly losing its natural habitat."
By Warren Schmidt - Herpetological Consultant, Biodiversity & Environment Africa and Author of Dangerous Animals & Outdoor Hazards in Africa.
'Ubuntu'
Rupert is a firm believer in the African philosophy of 'ubuntu', which is a concept in which your sense of self is shaped by your relationships with other people. It’s a way of living that begins with the premise that “I am” only because “we are.”
“In Africa, there is a concept known as ‘ubuntu’ – the profound sense that we are human only through the humanity of others; that if we are to accomplish anything in this world, it will in equal measure be due to the work and achievement of others.” - Nelson Mandela
Music to accompany
A Fish Eagle Calls
All songs were written by Kathy Sheppard.
Performed by various Malawian musicians.
Recorded and produced by Anko Layi at Audio Clinic in Blantyre, Malawi.
This album is dedicated to the late Richard Terrell.