We still have a couple of spaces available in both Spring and Autumn for residential volunteers.
29 February 2024
The first deadline for applications for residential volunteers has passed, but we are pleased to say there are still a couple of spaces available in both the Spring and Autumn seasons.
The roles are suitable for individuals wanting to kickstart a career in conservasion, gain experience in different surveying techniques and gain experience working with one of the best Bird Observatories in the country at arguably THE best migration hot-spot on the mainland!
Good bird identification skills are a requirement for these positions - successful candidates will be undertaking daily Point Counts across the area so you need to be able to identify common and passage birds by sight AND sound. If you can seperate Chiffchaff from Willow Warbler, identify Dunnock and Reed Bunting on call, then we want to hear from you! Knowledge of scarcer drift migrants is desirable, as you never know what might turn up here in Spring or Autumn!
If you are wanting to gain experience in habitat management, Bird Observatory Work, and be part of a bustling and vibrant local community of birders, these roles are for you!
Successful candidates will spend the mornings in the field, contributing to the daily sightings log and taking the Point Counts, leading on guided walks, working with the Observatory Manager, Warden and Assistant Warden with habitat management, and helping to maintain the Observatory accommodation. Its a very varied role, with lots of visitor engagement, but lots of birding and lots of fun along the way.
A weekly allowance for food and travel expenses will be provided, and accommodation is provided at the Observatory or the Cabin in the garden at no cost.
Applicants must be 18 years or older at the start of the placement.
The spring season start on March 20th March and runs until 10th June, and autumn season starts on August 20th and runs until 15th November.
Longer term placements are preferred (6 weeks or longer) but we can consider shorter placements in certain instances.
If you are interested in applying, please send your CV along with a cover note to the Observatory Manager, Rob Hunton, to info@spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk
