Residential on Reserve (More than 4 weeks) (Dorset Warden Team Residential Volunteer)

Why We Want You

We are looking for enthusiastic residential volunteers to join our Dorset Warden Team, based at Arne, for 6-12 months. You will be able to travel across the county to the other RSPB reserves in Dorset to explore a range of habitats.

You will become a vital member of the Dorset Team, and help us carry out work to benefit key species including Dormice, Dartford Warbler, Nightjar and Southern Damselfly.

What’s In It For You

You will gain a huge range of skills in practical habitat management as well as species identification with some opportunities to assist with wildlife surveys - working within the UK's largest conservation organisation.

You will volunteer not just at one reserve, but across all 8 Dorset reserves gaining vital experience working in wetlands, reed beds, heathland, acid grassland, hazel coppice, ancient woodland and tidal estuaries. Two of the reserves you will cover (Arne and Radipole Lake) are some of the busiest visitor reserves in the country and there may be opportunities to help with guided walks and visitor events.

The range of habitats and practical tasks across Dorset will give you an excellent foundation should you be looking for a career in conservation or if you just want to contribute to giving nature a home in our ever changing environment. Training will be essential to many of the tasks you will carry out and will be provided as needed.

You will be provided with self catering accommodation at Arne reserve, set in the heart of this fantastic area of lowland heath, giving you a chance to get to know all the local wildlife.

Requirements

You must be at least 18 years of age, confident to live in a remote place (potentially on your own), have a full UK driving licence and be a confident driver, and show enthusiasm and passion for wildlife. Due to the physically demanding nature of the work, you must be prepared to undertake strenuous manual labour outside in all weathers.

Though good wildlife skills and knowledge would be of benefit they are not essential, your willingness and enthusiasm to learn will make the difference to wildlife.

Notes

Accommodation, including bills, is provided. Appropriate training will be provided and pre-agreed expenses will be reimbursed where necessary.