It was back in June 2013 that I started on a 15 month voluntary placement at RSPB Sandwell Valley and Middleton Lakes reserves as Assistant Warden Intern. I can certainly say that it has not felt that long; the time has whizzed past!
As part of a course in Environmental Conservation at university, I jumped at the chance to undertake a year’s volunteering experience. My goal is to work in conservation in the future and this seemed a great step towards that.
A lot of serious talk going on at a Work Party Meeting! (Photo by Marion Parnell)
I cannot pinpoint a favourite part of my placement as I have enjoyed it all (really!).
One of the key parts of the job, especially over the spring and summer has been conducting wildlife surveys including butterflies, reptiles and amphibians, small mammals and birds. From being out early in the morning listing to bird song to staying late at night viewing moths. Surveying different wildlife has given me a better understanding of the eco-systems and habitats as a whole so I can understand how to give nature a home on our nature reserves.
In addition to surveying wildlife, I also get stuck in, managing its habitats; organising and co-leading practical work parties in tasks such as fencing, cutting reedbeds, pulling ragwort, constructing otter holts and building bird boxes. The habitat management aspect is especially pleasurable as you are left with the feeling that you are really making a difference.
Being out on the two reserves has given me a great opportunity to see some fantastic wildlife up close. Highlights include: Glossy ibis, bittern, pectoral sandpiper, Mediterranean gull, pintail and lesser spotted woodpecker. But its not just the birds that have caught my eye. Clouded yellow butterfly, migrant and southern hawkers, great crested newts and Chocolate Shanked Profiterole (you will have to ask a certain Work Party leader about this one!)
The feeders are a favoured spot of mine. I could spend hours watching them!
Whilst volunteering for the RSPB, I have learnt and done so much. I certainly have had some great experiences which will stay with me long after my placement ends.
I would certainly recommend volunteering at either of the reserves, in whatever capacity, be it on a work party, people engagement, school groups, surveys or VW. Its certainly time well spent.
During my time here I have been extremely lucky to have worked with a great bunch of people and I would like to thank everybody for being so friendly and helpful; I'm really going to miss you all.
I will certainly keep returning to see how everything / everyone is getting on. You can't get rid of me that easily!! Mwahaha.
So, its goodbye from me,
(Photo by Peter Turner)
David
It was nice to known you, if only for short out and good luck for the future.