Rich examining two stones in his hands at the water's edge, a moored sailboat behind him.

Dr. Rich Blundell

I'm an ecologist who studies how nature shapes human consciousness.

I've spent thirty years in Earth's wildest habitats from coral reefs to tundra, rainforest to the deep ocean, learning the intelligence of living systems.

My work is an attempt to reconnect human beings with a grounded source of ecological intelligence I call Oika.

PhD, Big History, Macquarie University Natural Historian, Maria Mitchell Association, Nantucket National Science Foundation production grants PBS, National Geographic Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors USCG 100-Ton Master Creator of Oika® and Earthling Theory

Rich leaning over a table of fossils and rock specimens, talking with two children at a public science event.
I am passionate about sharing my love of nature with everyone.
A narrow sand path cutting through open moorland and scrub under a wide sky.
One of my home habitats on Nantucket
Rich standing with a group of adults in a clearing by the water, leading a field session.
I run frequent workshops across the sciences and arts
Rich riding a wave crouched on a wooden surfboard, the grain of the deck visible.
I love to surf and ride my mountain bike to secret spots in nature
Rich grinning, holding up a lobster in each hand on the water at dusk.
I was a lobsterman until a giant fish reminded me of a different fate
Water-level view of Rich paddling a wooden board as a wave curls across the lens.
I've spent a lot of time at sea doing science and surfing
A long wooden bridge running straight out over water toward an orange sunset.
New England is my home habitat but I also love the Sierras
Rich in sunglasses on open moorland, one hand raised to the camera.
I'm a chill and affable dude.
Rich speaking in front of a wall screen showing a Nantucket Unique title slide, rock specimens laid out on a table beside him.
I am frequently asked to give lectures about Natural History & my theory on the provenance of human intelligence, Earthling Theory
Rich sanding the deck of a wooden surfboard outdoors, the ribbed internal frame visible along the rail.
My wooden surfboard designs are sold all over the world and I occasionally build one for a good cause