Meet The Team
Simon Pidgeon
Director
Simon is the Director at Quantock Ecology, with over 28 years of experience in the bat world and a broad range of professional ecological survey expertise. Holding Level 3 & 4 Bat Licences, he is also a registered consultant under the Bat Mitigation Class Licence (CL21) and holds accredited licences for Barn Owls and Dormice.
Having previously worked as a police officer working closely in the field of wildlife crime, Simon understands the challenges that can arise in planning and development projects.
He is committed to delivering a first-class service to clients and reassures them that the presence of protected species or habitats on a site doesn’t spell the end for a project.
"We’re here to find practical mitigation solutions that work for you and help secure your planning approval. We work with you every step of the way, ensuring your project moves forward while protecting the natural world."
Shellie Jackson
Office & Operations Manager
Shellie brings a creative and client-focused spark to her role as Operations & Office Manager at Quantock Ecology. With a diverse background in office management and operations, she excels at streamlining processes and improving efficiency to deliver excellent service.
Since joining the QE team in 2021, Shellie has developed a deep understanding of the ecological consultancy world, from ecological surveys to planning processes and legislation. Her hands-on experience in bat surveying and field training helps bridge the gap between field and office, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Alongside managing day-to-day operations and client relationships, Shellie plays a key role in driving business growth and supporting the team — closely monitored, of course, by her ever-loyal office sidekick, Frank.
Lexi Dowson-Wallace
Principal Ecologist
Lexi is a driving force at Quantock Ecology, bringing over nine years of commercial consultancy experience and a wealth of ecological expertise. With a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and an MSc in Environmental Consultancy, she’s the go-to for Biodiversity Net Gain assessments, GIS mapping, bat data analysis, and technical reporting—all of which she somehow manages to make look easy.
As a Level 2 bat and GCN licence holder, a certified MoRPh5 River Condition assessor, and an Associate Member of CIEEM, Lexi combines technical skill with a passion for supporting resilient and achievable mitigation solutions. Beyond the spreadsheets and survey data, she’s a core part of the team’s dynamic, always up for a good social and making sure everyone in the team feels supported.
Alex Bridel
Senior Ecologist
Alex is a Senior Ecologist at Quantock Ecology with a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science from Plymouth University and membership with the Royal Society of Biology.
With a strong interest in bats and terrestrial mammals such as dormice, Alex is a dedicated mentor, guiding projects and sharing his expertise with the team. He’s always the first to dive into the more adventurous aspects of ecology—whether that’s squeezing into lofts, wading through water, or trekking through dense undergrowth.
Outside of work, Alex spends his time exploring the outdoors, collecting nature’s hidden treasures, and taking on the trails of the Quantock Hills or Dartmoor on his mountain bike.
Tom Hird
Consultant Ecologist
With a background in marine biology and a career spanning both fieldwork and media, Tom is our resident expert on all things wet — whether that’s surveying great crested newts, keeping an eye on beaver habitats, or diving (not literally… yet) into aquatic ecology projects.. A member of the Royal Biological Society and the Marine Biological Association, holding a Marine Biology BSc (Hons), he’s as comfortable discussing marine ecosystems as he is tracking newts and bats.
Holding a Class 1 Newt Licence and a Class 1 Bat Licence, Tom blends his expertise with a passion for conservation, bringing a keen eye and a wealth of knowledge to every project. Whether it swims, splashes, or slithers—Tom’s probably already on it.
Rachael Stuart-MacRae
Administrator
Rachael is our experienced Administrator, with a strong background in both administration and customer service, keeping Quantock Ecology running smoothly with her excellent organisational skills and keen eye for detail. Often the first point of contact for clients, she ensures everything stays on track with efficiency and a healthy dose of humour.
Outside the office, she swaps admin for acting, thriving in the world of amateur dramatics. An award-winning costume creator, all-around theatre enthusiast and performer, she brings the same dedication to the stage as she does to the team — keeping both productions and projects seamlessly on course. Rachael’s positive energy and dedication make her an invaluable asset to the office, always bringing both efficiency and a smile to the workplace.
Chris Landon
Placement Student
Chris is currently studying Ecology and Wildlife Conservation at Bournemouth University, with just one year left before he dives into the world of professional ecology. Passionate about behavioural ecology and rewilding, he’s particularly fascinated by species reintroductions — especially beavers.
During his time with Quantock Ecology, Chris has been getting hands-on experience in ecological consultancy, learning the ropes from the team (with Lexi and Alex leading the way). Whether it’s fieldwork or data analysis, he’s eager to develop his skills and gain insight into the industry. After university, he hopes to work in ecological consultancy or play a role in rewilding projects across the UK.
Frank
Welfare & Optimism Operations Foreman (WOOF)
Frank is an integral part of the Quantock Ecology team—mostly because he refuses to be ignored. When he’s not conducting rigorous nap studies, he can be found patrolling the office, selectively choosing which humans are worthy of dispensing scritches. Approach at your own risk; he may either demand attention immediately or act as if you don’t exist—there is no in-between.
While his official job title suggests a focus on welfare and optimism, his real priorities include strategic snack acquisition and perfecting the art of looking neglected despite being spoiled rotten. He takes his work very seriously… except when he’s asleep (which is most of the time).