What goes on behind the scenes at Fairburn? There is a busy team of staff and volunteers who dedicate their time to keeping the reserve an incredible place for birds and wildlife.
Karen is the assistant warden at Fairburn and here is a little about the work she does.
How long have you been here?
“I volunteered here for six months back in 2007 and joined the staff team in 2008.”
What does a typical work day involve for you?
“Anything and everything, there is no typical day really. Some days I could be office based or out on the reserve in all weathers, odd things come up all the time and I am frequently called away from what I’m doing to catch wayward swans.
The warden team is here to look after the habitats out on the reserve. In winter we maintain the habitats and build infrastructure, such as the sand martin wall. Come springtime we stop practical work for the breeding season so we don’t disturb nesting birds and wildlife. That’s when our survey and monitoring work begins to help us learn what’s using the reserve and what we need to improve on.”
What do you enjoy most?
I love the variety, no two days are the same and it’s great to be able to spend so much time out on the reserve. And all the amazing people of course!
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of becoming a warden?
Volunteer! As much as possible to gain experience. You’ll learn practical skills and figure out if it’s what you really want to do. Equally, don’t expect to be outside all the time, warden work comes with its fair share of office work. Otherwise, good luck! It’s an awesome job!