Creating a Custom Wildlife Illustration for Noctua Ecology

It’s always exciting to collaborate with people who share a deep love for nature, and this latest commission has been particularly special. I recently received an email from a client who, along with her partner Lewis, is as passionate about wildlife as I am. As a wildlife illustrator, projects like these allow me to combine my art with my appreciation for the natural world.

Lewis runs Noctua Ecology, an ecology company based in Bristol that is dedicated to studying and protecting the rich biodiversity of the UK. Their work focuses on preserving habitats and ensuring the survival of species through innovative conservation methods.

The commission uniquely combines art and ecology. The client asked me to create a custom wildlife illustration that celebrates the species they work with and incorporates Noctua Ecology’s logo. This type of project brings together creativity, conservation, and a shared passion for showcasing the beauty of British wildlife.

Here’s the story behind the commission and a glimpse into how I’ll bring their vision to life.

The Story Behind Noctua Ecology’s Wildlife Illustration

The client, an ecologist originally from the U.S., shared the story of how she met Lewis during a research project in Uganda, where they were trapping bats together. Their shared passion for bats and conservation sparked a connection that eventually brought her to Bristol, where she’s been ever since.

Now, they travel the world studying bats and conducting surveys on hibernation, swarming, and radio tracking. While bats are a primary focus, their work also extends to newts, birds, dormice, and other fascinating wildlife. This dedication to a variety of species reflects their broad commitment to protecting biodiversity.

Lewis’s company, Noctua Ecology, takes its name from the brown long-eared bat’s favourite snack, the yellow underwing moth (from the genus Noctua). As his business continues to grow, including new office space, they’ve decided to decorate their workspace with artwork that celebrates the natural world—a perfect way to merge their passion for ecology with their professional environment.

Large Yellow Underwing Moth illustration by Ferne Creative
Large Yellow Underwing Moth illustration by Ferne Creative

The Wildlife Illustration Brief

The client asked me to create a piece similar to my wildlife habitat collections, with a collage of illustrations that incorporates a variety of species, weaving them together into a single cohesive design around the company’s logo. This kind of project perfectly aligns with my style and approach to wildlife illustration. I love blending art and ecology, using my skills to craft pieces that not only capture the beauty of nature but also tell a meaningful story about the natural world.

Each element in the design needs to feel interconnected, forming a unified representation of the species and habitats the company is passionate about protecting. This approach allows me to create something that feels both visually compelling and purpose-driven, reflecting the essence of Noctua Ecology’s mission.

British wildlife found around canals including fish, bats and birds.
Canal waterways print by Ferne Creative

Here’s a peek at some of the species they requested for the print:

Here’s a peek at some of the species they requested for the print:

  • Greater Horseshoe Bat (a side profile for an elegant touch)
  • Large Yellow Underwing Moth ( replacing the one in the logo)
  • Great Crested Newt
  • Dormouse
  • Badger
  • Jay
  • Bluebells
  • Fly Agaric Mushroom
  • Daubenton’s Bat



  • Yellowhammer
  • Skylark
  • Red Kite Feather
  • Snail
  • Blue Tit
  • Slow Worm 
  • Kingfisher
  • Magpie
  • Nightjar
  • Sand martin
  • Any Bird of Prey

The Creative Process: Bringing Wildlife to Life

I create all my illustrations digitally, using my iPad and photographs for reference. Each species is drawn individually, allowing me to preserve as much detail as possible. The flexibility of digital drawing also allows me to rearrange elements throughout the project, which I later refined in InDesign. The layout is as important as the drawings themselves, requiring careful thought to balance composition, colour, and detail. Every animal, plant, and object must feel like part of a larger, interconnected ecosystem, contributing to the overall design.

One challenge I enjoyed was arranging the species around the Noctua Ecology logo in a way that feels natural and cohesive. Since the logo features a yellow underwing moth, I drew the moth and positioned it like the logo with the text before surrounding it with bats, birds, plants, and other creatures. This created a vibrant wildlife scene that not only reflects the company’s work but also embodies its commitment to conservation and biodiversity.

The Finished Piece

After countless hours of detailed drawing and carefully repositioning each element, the final piece came together as a vibrant representation of the rich biodiversity found in the UK. I’m proud of how the illustration showcases the variety of species in such a dynamic way. I hope this print not only adds colour and energy to their office but also serves as a source of inspiration as they continue their important work in ecology and conservation. It’s exciting to think that this artwork will be part of the environment where so many impactful projects will unfold. 

British wildlife illustrated print by Ferne Creative
British Wildlife Illustrated print by Ferne Creative for Noctua Ecology
I had the pleasure of commissioning Ferne to create an exciting artwork inspired by British wildlife, featuring many protected plant and animal species, for Noctua Ecology’s office. The entire process was a delight. Ferne was incredibly kind, attentive, and enthusiastic about bringing my vision to life. The piece has become the centrepiece of our office, perfectly reflecting our passion for wildlife and conservation. Her creativity and attention to detail have made it truly one of a kind. I couldn’t be happier with the final piece and highly recommend Ferne to anyone looking for a talented and thoughtful artist!

Sierra Larson - Ecologist

If you want to work with me on your own commission for your business or organisation, you can find more information here and get in contact. 

Ferne Creative with Deaths head hawk moth sticker

The Author: Ferne Glannan-MacRae

Ferne Glannan-MacRae is a wildlife illustrator and designer with a passion for British wildlife and conservation. She creates intricate digital artwork on her iPad, capturing the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Before going freelance in 2022, Ferne honed her skills during six years in the print industry as a designer. With a background in wildlife photography, her work is deeply rooted in a love for nature and a commitment to raising awareness for wildlife on our doorstep.

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