We're recruiting for a Little Tern Head Warden to run the 2025 breeding seasons nest protection scheme at Beacon Ponds.
16 January 2025
Job Title: Head Little Tern Warden
Organisation: Spurn Bird Observatory
Location: Kilnsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, UK
Employment Type: Full-time, seasonal contract (May to August)
Salary: National Living Wage
Overview:
Spurn Bird Observatory, located just north of Spurn Point, is dedicated to monitoring and conserving bird populations, providing education, and encouraging a deeper appreciation of birds and their habitats. We are seeking an experienced and committed individual to lead the protection and monitoring of the Little Tern colony at Beacon Ponds. This seasonal role focuses on safeguarding this key breeding species and other beach nesting shorebirds.
Responsibilities:
Conservation Leadership: Oversee efforts to protect and enhance the breeding success of the Little Tern colony and other beach nesting species, including strategies to minimise disturbance and predation.
Nest Monitoring: Track and record nest locations, incubation progress, and chick development, maintaining detailed records of productivity and significant observations for all species using the colony.
Predator Management: Implement non-lethal predator control measures such as exclusion fencing, decoys, and other deterrents to reduce predation risks. Install and maintain electric fencing to protect nesting areas.
Visitor Engagement: Educate visitors about the Little Tern colony’s importance, promote responsible behaviour, and answer wildlife-related queries.
Data Collection and Reporting: Monitor population trends and breeding outcomes, contributing to ongoing research. Complete the annual Little Tern report, documenting findings and conservation outcomes.
Volunteer Supervision: Train and supervise volunteers assisting with monitoring and protection activities, ensuring their safety and effective contribution to the project.
Health and Safety: Follow health and safety protocols, ensuring a safe environment for staff, volunteers, and visitors.
Working Conditions:
Night-time work and long hours are required, often involving lone working in all weather conditions.
Regular physical tasks, including the installation and maintenance of electric fences.
Qualifications and Experience:
Proven experience in bird monitoring, conservation, and research, ideally with shorebirds or seabirds.
Strong bird identification skills, particularly of Little Terns and associated species.
Knowledge of Little Tern ecology, behaviour, and conservation challenges.
Experience managing volunteers and working within a team.
Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting, including producing formal conservation reports.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for engaging with visitors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
Demonstrable commitment to wildlife conservation and a passion for bird ecology.
Ability to work independently in a coastal environment and under challenging conditions.
How to Apply:
Send your CV and cover letter to info@spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk. Applications close on Sunday, 16th February at 23:59.
Interviews:
Virtual interviews will be held during the week commencing 24th February.