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Kirsty Lindsay

As we see in the new year and excitement builds for the year ahead we can't help but take a moment to reflect on the past year and the new faces welcomed to the team at Newport. Grab a cuppa and read all about the world of a volunteer at Newport Wetlands. 

Image: Simon Bedford

"Since I was little, I have always felt a connection to nature. I have my parents to thank for the endless camping trips, playing rounders on the beach, surfing and staying up late toasting marshmallows around the campfire. These are some of my best memories and where I think my love for nature began. I felt most at peace in these moments and after watching endless David Attenborough episodes I couldn’t help but want to be just like him. I couldn’t wait to leave school and go ‘wild’ (literally).

I am now 3 years into my Environmental Management and Sustainability degree at the University of Plymouth and I have never felt happier. I am so lucky to be the first placement student at RSPB Newport Wetlands! It is a place I have fond memories of as a child, and it feels strange to say that not too long ago I was here pond dipping and mini beast hunting with my classmates and now I am leading it! I hope to pass on my passion to young people and inspire them to join this crazy adventure.

In the 8 weeks I have been here, I have already learnt so much, and I have loved becoming part of such an important team. To think when I first arrived my bird knowledge consisted of seagulls and pigeons and now my favourite thing to do is get outdoors and see what I can spot.

I have volunteered at a lot of places, but there is nowhere quite like Newport Wetlands! From helping the local farmer herd his cattle in for winter, dodging hail stones the size of golf balls with 60 screaming children and creating crafts and tik toks over a festive latte, there is never a dull moment.  I am so excited to continue my placement. Come rain or shine, I know that I will always come away from a day at the wetlands feeling happier and more positive."

Ellie – On placement at Newport Wetlands

 

"Standing on the coastal with my back to the horizontal rain flattening the reeds, I ruminated on why I am now a volunteer down the Wetlands. And then I heard the curlews. There’s no way I would have ventured out in uncertain weather to go bird watching if I wasn’t a volunteer here – I’m not that hardy or foolhardy. So why did I sign up for standing in the freezing cold, with the wind blowing everything off the table, trying to write today’s sightings on a damp white board? On a sunny June day, I came on an orchid walk, led by an enthusiastic Jeremy and thought – I could do this, I know a bit about orchids and I like chatting to people. So I joined up in the Autumn and joined a crowd of welcoming, knowledgeable people, prepared to come out in any weather to welcome everyone to the Wetlands and tell them about starlings murmurating, otters skating on ice and water rails squealing in the reedbeds. Have I learnt anything? Well I can identify a Cetti’s warble and Marsh Harriers and I know not to trust the BBC or Met Office weather forecasts. One day I might even spot an otter. I can’t wait until the weather gets better..."

Ros – A visitor experience volunteer for 4 months

 

Image: Matthew Cook

"When people stop and ask why I’m staring at a patch of Everlasting Pea, I’m happy to spread the word that the Shrill carder and other rare Bumblebees not only survive, but thrive in this special place. Coming down the lane towards the Kiosk I always feel a sense of anticipation about which bees will be enjoying the colourful mosaic of wildflowers that day. It’s also great to learn about other wildlife – the excitement of seeing a bittern or a moth masquerading as a twig. I first visited Newport Wetlands in the hope of seeing the extremely rare Shrill carder but what drew me back were the place itself and the warm welcome. Now, I feel privileged to be a member of the friendly staff and volunteer team. Last summer, some talks and walks shared the importance of Bumblebees, how to identify them and create the right environment for these fabulous creatures. The aim is for people to enjoy the bees at the Wetlands, in their local green spaces and generally create a buzz. I’m really excited for another season of being around Bumblebees with anyone who cares to join me. It’s the best thank you I can give for this wonderful home for nature."

Claire – A bumblebee lover and enthusiast who volunteers with us on events

Image: Claire Fidler

You can join the team at Newport Wetlands in a variety of ways. Visit www.RSPB/Volunteer/Newport for all the opportunities that await or read our blog about the roles we have on offer here.