Surveyor (Not on a Reserve) (Turtle Dove Habitat Survey Volunteer (Suffolk))

Through the turtle dove Defra Test and trials project 75 turtle dove foraging plots have been created by farmers in south Suffolk. We are looking for volunteers with keen plant identification skills to help us pilot the foraging habitat survey methods and training in preparation for the 2023 field season. The key to creating a successful turtle dove foraging plot is establishing seed rich flowering plants and maintaining 30-60% bare ground. This is difficult to do and so monitoring the success of different establishment and maintenance methods on different soils will help to provide extra guidance to farmers in the future.

This is a pilot of a potentially larger volunteer project for the 2023 field season. You will help to shape the project, especially the training and logistics. There may be the opportunity to assist with foraging plot surveys this year, depending on experience and availability.

We want to connect more people to nature, and we can train and support people who are new to surveying, providing all the guidance you need to gain confidence. You do need some plant identification skills but a confidence with using ID guides and being able to identify common plant families is more important than being able to identify to species level straight away. This science will then contribute to habitat management plans, inform policy decisions and help influence external organisations.

Survey Volunteers complete surveys of agreed species on a weekly/monthly/annual basis during set times of the year. We offer training in ID and survey skills to ensure that you are prepared for each individual survey, there may be opportunities to work with a peer buddy. Please do contact us if you have any questions about the project.