I first started volunteering for the RSPB in the late summer of 2014 as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s scheme. I had visited Strumpshaw Fen many times before as a child, but never knew the complexities of conservation management and the runnings of a reserve until I spent time out with the wardens and other volunteers. I always leave happy after a day at Strumpshaw, knowing that what I did that day will have a real impact on the local wildlife. At the end of summer, the work is concentrated on the reedbeds, which can be very hot work (unless, like me, you fall into the ditch)! The reserve works on a rotation method, splitting the reedbed into different sections. This ensures that there is both a mix of old and new reed. It was fantastic to be able to learn how our management was helping endangered species such as the bittern and swallowtail butterfly thrive.
At the beginning of last summer, I started volunteering with the Visitor Experience team, spending time in reception greeting visitors, showing seasonal wildlife highlights around the reserve to visitors and helping with events. This has been an amazing experience, enabling me to talk and connect with like-minded people who are interested in wildlife and conservation.
Part of the reason why I love volunteering at Strumpshaw Fen, is the variety each day brings. At Strumpshaw we offer many events over the year for people to get closer with nature. In summer it’s watching grass snakes sunning themselves in the woodlands, swallowtail butterflies flitting between the ragged robin. Then in winter, seeing ghostly hen harriers float above the reedbeds and bitterns stalking in the pools for small fish and beetles. One of our most popular events was our ‘Wild Fridays’ we ran last summer, getting children out into the meadows, woodlands and fens at Strumpshaw to explore the multitude of species that live there.
While my main love will always be volunteering out on the reserve, it’s also interesting helping out with wider RSPB campaigns. For example, earlier this year I shot a short timelapse for the Climate Coalition’s ‘Show the Love’ campaign, this was especially exciting for me as I enjoy working with cameras and shooting short films.
To those who have a bit of spare time and are interested in conservation, wildlife or the outdoors, I encourage you to get out there, find you local RSPB group or reserve and volunteer! It is an amazing learning experience and you learn from everyone you meet! From being a roving ranger and spotting wildlife around the reserve, to helping out at family events and schools, there is a role for everyone at the RSPB.