Reserve Biodiversity Monitor and Surveyor (South Essex Reptile (Adder) Surveyor)

Our nature reserves are special places for people and wildlife. We need volunteers to complete a variety of surveys to collect essential data. This science will contribute to habitat management, inform policy and help influence external organisations.

It might seem like these wild places have always just been there. But quite often we have to work really hard to maintain habitats to be in the best condition for wildlife. We have lost a lot of wild landscapes, so the small places that we do have, need a bit of extra care.

In order to ensure that the work we are doing is having the right impact for wildlife. Our survey work helps to inform the conservation work we do.

This is a really interesting role and will involve:

• Surveying wildlife on the reserve.
• Input surveying data to the database or submitting it for another individual to input.
• Following the RSPB policy for lone working and holding sensitive data.

We will offer training in ID and surveying skills to ensure that you are prepared for each individual survey.

The skills required for this role will be dependent on what species are being monitored/surveyed. For example, bird ID skills would be required for breeding bird surveys.

• Experience observing wildlife and a good knowledge of wildlife (or a willingness to increase your identification and/or survey knowledge to undertake this role).
• Organisation skills, to be able to keep reliable records of what has been seen.
• IT skills for submitting records and keeping in touch.
• Ability to work independently, or possibly in a small team.

This is a really rewarding role and offers volunteers a chance to develop hands on experience and skills around surveying. The role also offers an opportunity to be out in nature and benefit your own health and wellbeing. It will suit someone who enjoys being outdoors and volunteers will have to observe wildlife closely, which is wonderful if you take enjoyment from the natural world. Monitoring can often take you to the same places time and again, so you will see the season changes.

You will be contributing to Saving Nature; our survey and monitoring work helps provide vital knowledge so we are able to better protect these places for nature long into the future.