Surveyor (Not on a Reserve) (Bowland Breeding Wader Surveyor)

Where: Farmland in the Forest of Bowland AONB

When: April-July 2023

Commitment: minimum 5 hours per month

Why we want you: The RSPB has been conducting annual surveys of breeding curlew, lapwing, redshank, snipe and oystercatcher in Bowland for 10 years, providing invaluable information about the impact of wildlife friendly farming practices on the survival of these amazing birds. We are looking for volunteers to continue this survey work in the spring/summer of 2023. This is a great opportunity to get involved in a long-term conservation project.

Skills/Talents you will need: You need the ability to identify the target species of curlew, lapwing, redshank, snipe and oystercatcher by sight and call. You need to be confident reading a map and following written instructions. Self-motivated, conscientious and reliable. Willing to work collaboratively with a wide variety of people. You need a willingness to participate in health and safety training and undertake lone work in a safe and conscientious manner. Days out in the field will require sturdy footwear, waterproof clothing and even sun cream and a hat! The weather can be very changeable in the Forest of Bowland. You will need your own transport as some of the farms are in isolated locations and cannot be reached by public transportation.

Notes: Surveys last 2 hours on average and are repeated three times on the same farm, with at least two weeks between visits as follows: Visit one: 15 April – 6 May Visit two: 7 May – 27 May, Visit three: 28 May – 18 June Extra visits from June 18th- if nests are found on your farm, extended visits are then done weekly to monitor the nest and chicks for up to four weeks. These surveys take an hour.

Appropriate training will be provided, and expenses will be reimbursed where necessary.

You will be volunteering in the beautiful and dramatic Forest of Bowland AONB, surveying some of our most charismatic bird species. You will meet farmers who have engaged in wildlife friendly farm management, and you will be part of a team of dedicated staff and volunteers. This is an opportunity to develop field skills and make a practical and substantial contribution to the conservation of vulnerable and declining species. You will be trained in chick and nest identification and survey methodology.

This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact for species, nature and the environment. You will have a chance to develop hands on experience and skills around surveying. An opportunity to be out in nature and benefit your own health and wellbeing, this role will suit someone who enjoys being outdoors. You will have to observe wildlife closely, which is wonderful if you take enjoyment from the natural world. There is opportunity to learn and use surveying equipment such as trail cameras. Monitoring can often take you to the same places time and again, so you will see the season changes. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to develop your volunteering with the RSPB and contribute to our Saving Nature strategy by taking on this role.