Luke is probably a familiar sight to many regular visitors to the reserve, even if you don't know his name. Just last week a visitor asked me what the name was of the chap with curly hair who always wore a bandanna! I decided it would be a good idea (much to the dismay of the wardens!) for us to find out a bit more about them and their wardening ways!
First up is Luke Wake, our Assistant Warden since November last year.
Why did you want to become a warden? To be involved in conservation, as this is my passion in life.
How did you become a warden/end up being a warden? I started off volunteering for various conservation bodies and then got my first contract as a Little Tern warden with the RSPB. I haven’t really looked back since then.
The best thing about being a warden? Being outside and carrying out practical habitat management. Also bird surveys, they are awesome.
Best warden moment? Seeing a White Tailed Eagle getting mobbed whilst carrying out a lapwing survey, or seeing the first Little Tern fledge during the summer of 2014.
Worst thing about being a warden? There aren’t enough hours in the day to get all the work done sometimes.
Worst warden moment? Falling waist deep into water whilst wearing waders. This usually happens in winter when it is freezing cold.
Your best wildlife experience? Seeing a White Tailed Eagle whilst carrying out a Lapwing survey on Oronsay.
Favourite nature reserve? RSPB Sutton Fen or RSPB Strumpshaw Fen. Great places for nature which bring back some great memories.
Early bird or night owl? Early bird
What species/natural wonder would you most like to see? I would love to see a Lammergeier drop a bone from high up and then swallow it down.