Description

We want to connect more people to nature and are able to train and support people who are new to surveying and provide all the guidance you need to gain confidence. This science will then contribute to habitat management plans, inform policy decisions and help influence external organisations.

Survey Volunteers complete surveys of agreed species on a weekly/monthly/annual basis during set times of the year. We offer training in ID and survey skills to ensure that you are prepared for each individual survey, there may be opportunities to work with a peer buddy.

This is your chance to work on the most extensive wet grassland in NI and one of the most important wetlands in Ireland for breeding waders – Lough Beg. The wetlands surrounding Lough Beg was once home to an astounding number of breeding waders, however unfortunately it followed the same country-wide trend of loss of suitable habitat and priority species due to intensification of agricultural practices. However, due to landowner advisory work, agri-environment schemes, and habitat management, we have seen an improvement of habitat in recent years and the birds are returning. With your help, we hope to continue our annual monitoring of the breeding waders at Lough Beg and expand this further into the Lower Bann Valley where will launch a breeding wader monitoring programme on new sites.

We are looking for volunteers with the following skills and experience:

• Ability to walk 5- 8km, sometimes on uneven terrain.
• Identification skills of various species (this could be avian, flora or fauna).
• Or an interest in increasing your identification and survey knowledge.
• Ability to complete the surveys as an individual or in small groups.