Foraging has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with social media playing a significant role in its renewed interest. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become valuable resources for those seeking to learn about wild edibles and sustainable harvesting practices.

Following expert foragers on social media can provide aspiring gatherers with valuable knowledge, safety tips, and inspiration for their own foraging adventures. These accounts often showcase a wide variety of edible plants, fungi, and flowers, while also emphasizing the importance of proper identification and ethical harvesting techniques. From seasoned botanists to passionate amateurs, the foraging community on social media offers diverse perspectives and experiences for enthusiasts of all levels.

1) Alexis Nikole (@blackforager)

Alexis Nikole Nelson, known as @blackforager on social media, has become a wildly popular figure in the foraging community. With over 2 million followers on Instagram and a significant presence on TikTok, she shares her passion for wild edibles with a broad audience.

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Nelson describes herself as a foraging teacher and environmental science enthusiast. Her content focuses on identifying and preparing edible plants found in urban and natural environments.

Nelson’s approach to foraging is both educational and entertaining. She creates engaging videos that teach viewers how to safely identify and cook with wild plants growing around them.

Her unique blend of knowledge, humor, and enthusiasm has helped make foraging more accessible to a wider audience. Nelson’s content often highlights the connections between foraging and environmental stewardship.

In addition to her social media presence, Nelson is working on a forthcoming guidebook-cookbook. This project aims to further share her expertise and recipes with those interested in exploring the world of wild edibles.

2) Hank Shaw (@huntgathercook)

Hank Shaw is a renowned expert in wild food foraging and preparation. He’s a James Beard Award-winning author and chef who has dedicated his career to exploring the intersection of food and nature.

Shaw’s popular website, Hunter Angler Gardener Cook, launched in 2007. It serves as a comprehensive resource for those interested in wild foods, offering recipes and guidance on hunting, fishing, and foraging.

On social media, Shaw shares his expertise through the handle @huntgathercook. His content covers a wide range of topics, from identifying edible wild plants to preparing game meats and foraged mushrooms.

Shaw has authored five cookbooks, showcasing his creative approach to wild food cuisine. His recipes range from bear meat osso buco to wild boar char siu, emphasizing both culinary skill and a commitment to minimizing food waste.

In addition to his writing, Shaw hosts a podcast called “Hunt, Gather, Talk.” The show delves into various aspects of foraging, fishing, hunting, and cooking wild foods, providing listeners with valuable insights and tips.

3) Meriem Greenfield (@wildblyss)

Meriem Greenfield is a respected foraging expert who shares her knowledge through her Instagram account @wildblyss. Her posts showcase a wide variety of edible plants and fungi found in diverse ecosystems.

Greenfield’s content focuses on sustainable foraging practices and ethical harvesting techniques. She emphasizes the importance of proper plant identification and respecting local ecosystems.

Her photography captures the beauty of wild edibles in their natural habitats. Greenfield often includes detailed captions that provide valuable information about each species’ characteristics, uses, and potential look-alikes.

Followers of @wildblyss gain insights into seasonal foraging opportunities and learn about lesser-known edible plants. Greenfield also shares recipes and preservation methods for wild-harvested ingredients.

Through her posts, Greenfield encourages her audience to develop a deeper connection with nature and their local environment. She promotes responsible foraging as a way to enhance food security and reconnect with traditional knowledge.

4) Pascal Baudar (@urbanoutdoorskills)

Pascal Baudar is a renowned forager, wild food researcher, and author based in California. He specializes in wildcrafting plants, herbs, and fungi from the natural environment.

Baudar’s Instagram account, @urbanoutdoorskills, showcases his expertise in foraging and traditional food preservation techniques. His posts often feature unique wild ingredients and innovative culinary creations.

As a skilled artisan, Baudar also explores wild clay pottery, incorporating elements from nature into his artistic work. He shares these creations and techniques with his followers.

Baudar’s foraging knowledge extends beyond simply identifying edible plants. He focuses on capturing the essence of landscapes through food and beverages, creating flavors that represent specific environments.

His expertise has led him to collaborate with notable chefs and restaurants, including N/Naka, Trois Mec, and Melisse. Baudar now leads foraging classes and workshops, sharing his knowledge with others interested in wild food.

Following Pascal Baudar on social media provides insight into sustainable foraging practices and creative ways to use wild ingredients. His content appeals to both novice foragers and experienced wild food enthusiasts.

5) Sergei Boutenko (@sergeiboutenko)

Sergei Boutenko is a renowned expert in foraging for wild edible plants. He shares his extensive knowledge through virtual foraging walks and educational videos on social media platforms.

Boutenko demonstrates how to safely identify and consume common weeds and wild edibles. His content often features step-by-step guides on finding these plants in everyday surroundings, including backyards.

On his social media accounts, Sergei provides valuable tips for responsible wildcrafting. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding pesticide-treated areas and learning proper plant identification techniques.

Boutenko’s approach makes foraging accessible to beginners. He refers to many wild plants as “unintentional food,” highlighting their abundance in urban and suburban environments.

Followers of Sergei Boutenko’s social media can expect to learn about a wide variety of edible plants. His content covers popular species like dandelions as well as lesser-known wild edibles.

Sergei’s engaging presentation style and clear instructions make complex foraging concepts easy to understand. His social media presence is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring wild food sources.

6) Robin Harford (@robinharfordforaging)

Robin Harford is a renowned ethnobotanical researcher and wild food educator based in the UK. He established his foraging school in 2008, offering a variety of in-person and online courses to help people safely identify and use wild edible plants and seaweeds.

Harford’s expertise has earned him recognition from notable sources. BBC Countryfile listed his foraging courses at the top of their ‘Best foraging courses in the UK’ ranking. Additionally, Michelin chef Richard Corrigan recommended Harford’s website, eatweeds.co.uk, for The Times’ Top 50 Websites For Food and Drink.

On social media, Harford shares valuable insights into wild and ornamental plants. His content explores their uses for food, medicine, and other purposes. He offers a mix of free and paid content, including exclusive posts and community calls for paid members.

Harford’s teaching experience extends beyond the UK, having conducted foraging courses in Europe, the USA, India, and Thailand. His in-person events are highly sought after, often fully booked with extensive waiting lists.

7) Leda Meredith (@ledameredith)

Leda Meredith is a renowned foraging expert and author with extensive knowledge of wild edibles. She has written several books on foraging, including “Northeast Foraging: 120 Wild and Flavorful Edibles from Beach Plums to Wineberries” and “The Forager’s Feast.”

As a certified ethnobotanist, Meredith shares her expertise through various platforms. She teaches foraging classes at the New York Botanical Garden and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, helping enthusiasts identify and harvest wild plants safely.

Meredith’s YouTube channel offers valuable foraging tips and techniques for urban and rural environments. Her content covers a wide range of topics, from food preservation to sustainable living practices.

On social media, Meredith provides regular updates on seasonal foraging opportunities and shares recipes using wild ingredients. Her Instagram account, @ledameredith, features beautiful photographs of foraged plants and fungi.

Followers can expect practical advice on identifying edible plants, mushrooms, and berries native to the Northeast United States. Meredith’s engaging content appeals to both novice foragers and experienced wildcrafters looking to expand their knowledge.

8) Sam Thayer (@samuelthayer)

Sam Thayer is a renowned expert on edible wild plants and responsible foraging. He has authored award-winning books on wild food and is recognized internationally for his expertise.

Thayer’s mission revolves around promoting sustainable foraging practices and fostering appreciation for nature. He leads foraging workshops and shares his extensive knowledge with enthusiasts.

His experience spans over 900 different wild edible plants, making him one of the most knowledgeable foragers in the world. Thayer’s property near Superior, Wisconsin serves as a living laboratory for his work.

Through his social media presence, Thayer educates followers on identifying, harvesting, and preparing wild edibles. He emphasizes conservation and responsible foraging techniques in his posts.

Followers can expect to learn about a wide variety of plants, from common species to rare finds. Thayer’s content often includes detailed identification tips and preparation methods for wild foods.

9) Alan Bergo (@foragerchef)

Alan Bergo is a James Beard Award-winning chef, author, show host, and forager. He has been writing about cooking wild food for over a decade on his website Forager Chef.

Bergo’s Instagram account @foragerchef showcases his expertise in wild food preparation and foraging techniques. He shares recipes, tutorials, and insights into seasonal ingredients found in nature.

His posts often feature unique ingredients like creeping bellflower, a common edible weed. Bergo provides tips on harvesting and cooking these lesser-known plants, encouraging followers to explore their local environments.

As an experienced chef, Bergo offers creative ways to incorporate foraged ingredients into gourmet dishes. His approach combines traditional culinary techniques with wild food knowledge.

Followers of @foragerchef can expect to learn about edible plants, mushrooms, and other foraged ingredients throughout the year. Bergo’s content is both educational and inspiring for those interested in wild food and sustainable cooking practices.

10) Katee Hui (@hreecoo_)

Katee Hui, known on Instagram as @hreecoo_, is a respected foraging expert based in the United Kingdom. Her account showcases her extensive knowledge of wild edibles found in British woodlands and countryside.

Hui’s posts feature stunning photographs of her foraging finds, accompanied by detailed descriptions and identification tips. She focuses on seasonal wildcrafting, highlighting different plants and fungi throughout the year.

Her content emphasizes sustainable foraging practices and responsible harvesting techniques. Hui often shares recipes and preparation methods for the wild foods she collects, inspiring followers to connect with nature through food.

As an experienced guide, Hui offers foraging walks and workshops in various locations across the UK. Her educational approach helps beginners develop the skills needed to safely identify and gather wild edibles.

Followers of @hreecoo_ can expect regular updates on current foraging conditions and species availability. Hui’s passion for wild food and commitment to ethical foraging practices make her account a valuable resource for both novice and experienced foragers.

11) Lisa Cutcliffe (@eduliswildfood)

Lisa Cutcliffe is a foraging instructor and wild food specialist based in Leeds, Yorkshire. She has over 20 years of experience in identifying and harvesting edible plants and fungi from nature.

Cutcliffe runs foraging courses across the UK, including Yorkshire, Cumbria, Hampshire, and Scotland. Her expertise spans a wide range of wild foods, with a particular focus on mushrooms, seaweeds, and tree foraging.

On her Instagram account @eduliswildfood, Cutcliffe shares her foraging adventures and knowledge. She posts photos and videos of various wild edibles, offering bite-sized introductions to different species found in the UK.

Cutcliffe’s passion for sustainable foraging is evident in her work. She emphasizes the importance of mindful engagement with nature and incorporates wild foods into her regular diet.

In addition to her courses and social media presence, Cutcliffe supplies wild ingredients and travels extensively in her campervan, often accompanied by her adventure cats. Her foraging expeditions take her to diverse locations across the UK, including the Lake District and Northumbria.

12) Tanya Petrovna (@chef_tanyapetrovna)

Tanya Petrovna is a renowned chef and restaurant owner based in California. She founded Native Foods in 1994, which grew into a successful vegan restaurant chain with multiple locations across Southern California.

Petrovna’s culinary journey began early, influenced by her Czechoslovakian mother’s cooking. At age 18, she made the decision to become vegetarian while attending College of the Desert.

Her expertise extends beyond restaurant kitchens. Petrovna is passionate about foraging and incorporating wild ingredients into her dishes. She shares her knowledge and experiences on social media, inspiring others to explore plant-based cooking.

Currently, Petrovna owns and operates Chef Tanya’s Kitchen in Palm Springs and Palm Desert. Her Instagram account showcases her culinary creations and provides insights into her sustainable cooking practices.

Petrovna’s commitment to veganism and sustainability makes her a valuable resource for those interested in plant-based foraging. Her posts often highlight locally sourced ingredients and innovative ways to use them in cooking.

13) Stone Axe Herbals (@stoneaxeherbals)

Stone Axe Herbals, run by Madeline, is a valuable resource for foraging enthusiasts. The blog and social media presence offer a wealth of information on living off the land.

Madeline shares stories and advice on foraging for wild edibles and medicinals. Her content covers topics like identifying and harvesting wintergreen, nettles, and Jerusalem artichokes.

Stone Axe Herbals provides practical tips for using foraged plants. For example, Madeline explains how to safely consume raw nettles in survival situations by folding and crushing the leaves.

The account also delves into related skills like gardening and primitive techniques. Followers can expect to find recipes for wholesome and affordable food and medicine made from foraged ingredients.

Stone Axe Herbals’ Pinterest board “livin’ off the land” showcases additional content on wild foraging, edible plants, and foraging recipes. This curated collection serves as an excellent visual guide for aspiring foragers.

14) Finn Feast (@finn_feast)

Finn Feast is a prominent figure in the foraging community, known for sharing valuable insights on wild food gathering and preparation. Their Instagram account @finn_feast showcases a variety of foraged ingredients and dishes.

Finn Feast’s posts often feature seasonal finds, from wild mushrooms to edible flowers. They provide followers with practical tips on identifying, harvesting, and cooking with foraged foods.

The account emphasizes sustainable foraging practices and encourages followers to develop a deeper connection with nature. Finn Feast’s expertise extends beyond simply finding wild edibles, as they also share recipes and preservation techniques.

Followers of @finn_feast can expect to learn about lesser-known forageable plants and fungi, as well as creative ways to incorporate them into meals. The account serves as an educational resource for both novice and experienced foragers.

Finn Feast’s approach to foraging aligns with the growing interest in local, sustainable food sources. Their content inspires others to explore their surroundings and discover the edible treasures hidden in plain sight.

15) Weldon Kekauoha (@hawaiianforestforager)

Weldon Kekauoha is a respected forager and educator based in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. He shares his extensive knowledge of Hawaiian forest plants and their traditional uses through his popular Instagram account @hawaiianforestforager.

Kekauoha’s posts showcase the diverse edible and medicinal plants found in Hawaii’s lush forests. He provides detailed information on plant identification, harvesting techniques, and preparation methods for various native species.

In addition to foraging, Kekauoha is an accomplished musician. He incorporates his passion for Hawaiian culture into both his music and foraging education, often drawing connections between traditional plant knowledge and local customs.

Followers of @hawaiianforestforager can expect to see stunning photographs of Hawaiian flora along with insightful captions about their properties and cultural significance. Kekauoha’s expertise makes his account a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced foragers interested in Hawaiian plants.

16) Gordon Hillman (@gordonhillman)

Gordon Hillman was a renowned botanist, archaeobotanist, and ethnoarchaeologist who made significant contributions to the field of wild plant foods. His expertise spanned over four decades, placing him at the forefront of research on ancient human plant use.

Hillman’s work focused on the identification, collection, processing, and consumption of wild plants in the United Kingdom. He compiled extensive knowledge on root foods, nuts, seeds, fleshy fruits, greens, and flowers that grow naturally in Britain.

As a lecturer at the Institute of Archaeology, Hillman played a crucial role in educating future generations of archaeobotanists. He helped launch the MSc in Bioarchaeology program, which offered intensive practical training in the field.

Hillman’s research encompassed both ancient and modern wild plant use. He drew upon his experiences in fieldwork, laboratory studies, and classroom teaching to create comprehensive guides for foragers and researchers alike.

Though Gordon Hillman passed away in 2018, his legacy continues to influence the world of archaeobotany and wild food foraging. His work remains a valuable resource for those interested in exploring the edible plants that grow in the British landscape.

17) Fiona Bird (@fionabirdforager)

Fiona Bird is a foraging expert and author based in Scotland. She shares her extensive knowledge of wild edibles through social media, particularly on Instagram.

Bird’s Instagram account showcases her foraging adventures and the culinary creations she makes using wild ingredients. Her posts often feature stunning photographs of plants, mushrooms, and seaweeds found in nature.

As an experienced forager, Bird provides valuable insights into identifying and harvesting wild foods safely. She emphasizes the importance of sustainable foraging practices and respect for the environment.

Bird has authored several books on foraging, including “The Forager’s Kitchen” and “Let Your Kids Go Wild Outside.” Her expertise extends beyond plants to include seashore foraging, reflecting her coastal location.

Through her social media presence, Bird inspires others to explore the natural world and discover the edible treasures it offers. Her posts often include tips for beginners and interesting facts about various wild species.

18) John Wright (@johnrighteco)

John Wright is a renowned foraging expert based in West Dorset, UK. He has dedicated his life to exploring and sharing knowledge about wild foods.

Wright’s expertise spans a wide range of foraging topics, including mushrooms, seashore plants, and hedgerow edibles. He has led countless foraging excursions, helping enthusiasts discover the bounty of nature.

As an author, Wright has penned several popular books in the River Cottage series. His works on edible seashore plants and mushrooms are particularly well-regarded in the foraging community.

Wright’s foraging courses at River Cottage and the Kingcombe Centre have attracted many eager learners. He also conducts mushroom foraging courses in the South East of England.

On social media, Wright shares valuable insights and tips for safe, responsible foraging. His posts often feature identification guides, recipes, and anecdotes from his foraging adventures.

Followers of @johnrighteco can expect a wealth of information on seasonal wild foods and foraging techniques. Wright’s expertise and passion for wild edibles make his account a valuable resource for both novice and experienced foragers.

19) The Wild Dyery (@thewilddyery)

The Wild Dyery, founded by Justine Aldersey-Williams, is a natural dye studio and garden based in Hoylake. Aldersey-Williams shares her expertise in botanical color and textiles through her popular social media channels.

Her Instagram account @thewilddyery boasts over 32,000 followers. She regularly posts about natural fabric dyeing techniques, showcasing the vibrant colors achieved using plant-based dyes.

The Wild Dyery also maintains an active presence on YouTube and Facebook. Aldersey-Williams offers tutorials and workshops on natural dyeing methods, helping followers create eco-friendly textiles.

As a textile artist, consultant, and teacher, Aldersey-Williams promotes sustainable practices in fabric coloring. Her approach emphasizes using local plants and environmentally conscious techniques.

The Wild Dyery’s social media content often features foraging adventures. Aldersey-Williams explores the potential of various plants for creating natural dyes, encouraging followers to connect with their local environment.

20) Markus Rothkranz (@markusandcara)

Markus Rothkranz is a natural health expert and motivational speaker who shares foraging advice on social media. His Instagram account @markusandcara, co-managed with partner Cara Brotman, offers insights into wild food gathering and nature-based nutrition.

Rothkranz advocates for eating foods as nature intended, emphasizing the importance of natural, unprocessed ingredients. He encourages followers to explore their local environments for edible plants and herbs.

The couple’s content goes beyond typical foraging posts. They blend advice on wild food identification with broader health and lifestyle tips. Their Instagram feed features a mix of foraging expeditions, recipe ideas, and motivational messages.

Rothkranz and Brotman also maintain a YouTube channel where they share more in-depth foraging tutorials and health-related videos. Their content often highlights exotic locations, combining travel inspiration with practical foraging knowledge.

Followers of @markusandcara can expect regular updates on wild food discoveries, preparation techniques, and the health benefits of foraged ingredients. The account serves as a valuable resource for both novice and experienced foragers looking to expand their knowledge.

21) Liz Knight (@foragefinefoods)

Liz Knight is a prominent UK-based wild food expert and author. She shares her extensive knowledge through foraging courses in the Black Mountains and beyond.

Knight has authored several books on foraging and wild food. Her works include “Forage: Wild Plants to Gather and Eat” and “Buds and Blossoms.” She also has a book on wild drinks set for release.

On Instagram, Knight maintains an active presence under the handle @foragefinefoods. Her account boasts over 15,000 followers and features 1,627 posts showcasing her foraging adventures and expertise.

Knight’s journey into foraging began in her 20s when she discovered a second-hand wildflower ID book with edibility notes. This sparked her passion for wild food, which she found to be free, nutritious, and delicious.

Through her business, Forage Fine Foods, Knight offers foraging walks and workshops. She is known for creating globally influenced recipes using wild ingredients, demonstrating the versatility of foraged foods.

Understanding Foraging

Foraging is the practice of gathering wild food resources from the environment. It has deep historical roots and continues to evolve in modern times, blending traditional knowledge with new approaches.

Historical Context

Foraging was essential for human survival throughout most of history. Hunter-gatherer societies relied on wild plants and animals as their primary food sources. They developed extensive knowledge of local ecosystems, seasonal availability, and plant identification.

Ancient civilizations incorporated foraged foods into their diets and medicinal practices. Traditional ecological knowledge was passed down through generations orally and through hands-on experience.

As agriculture developed, foraging became less critical for survival in many societies. However, it remained important in times of scarcity and in certain cultural practices.

Modern Foraging Practices

Today, foraging has experienced a resurgence as a hobby and sustainable food practice. Urban foraging has gained popularity, with people discovering edible plants in parks and vacant lots.

Social media has played a significant role in spreading foraging knowledge. Experts share identification tips and recipes online, fostering a new community of foragers.

Ethical considerations are crucial in modern foraging. Practitioners emphasize sustainable harvesting methods and respect for ecosystems. Many follow guidelines like the “rule of thirds” – taking no more than one-third of any plant population.

Safety is paramount. Novice foragers are advised to learn from experienced guides or reputable sources to avoid misidentification of potentially dangerous plants.

Benefits of Following Foraging Experts

Following foraging experts on social media provides valuable educational insights and inspiration for sustainable living. These knowledgeable individuals share their expertise, helping followers learn about edible plants, safe foraging practices, and eco-friendly lifestyles.

Educational Insights

Foraging experts offer a wealth of information through their social media posts. They share identification tips for wild edibles, enabling followers to recognize safe and nutritious plants. Seasonal foraging guides help people understand when certain species are available and at their peak.

Experts often post about lesser-known edible plants, expanding followers’ knowledge beyond common species. They provide preparation and cooking tips, teaching how to transform foraged ingredients into delicious meals. Safety advice is crucial, with experts highlighting potential look-alikes and toxic plants to avoid.

Many foraging experts discuss sustainable harvesting practices, ensuring followers learn to gather responsibly without harming ecosystems.

Inspiration for Sustainable Living

Following foraging experts can inspire a more sustainable lifestyle. Their posts showcase the abundance of free, nutritious food available in nature, encouraging followers to reduce reliance on store-bought produce.

Experts often share recipes and preservation methods, helping followers make the most of their foraged finds. This promotes a zero-waste mindset and connects people to seasonal eating patterns.

Foraging experts frequently discuss the health benefits of wild foods, motivating followers to incorporate these nutrient-dense options into their diets. Their adventures in nature can inspire outdoor exploration, fostering a deeper connection to local ecosystems.

By highlighting the importance of biodiversity and conservation, foraging experts encourage followers to become stewards of the environment.