RSPB NI: Breeding Wader Surveyors (Lower Bann valley)

Populations of many birds, plants and other animals are declining. To protect them, we need accurate data on their breeding numbers and population trends to help inform the science behind our work — and that’s where you come in.

We’re looking for volunteers to help us survey breeding waders between April and June at Lough Beg and areas surrounding the ASSI. These surveys are vital for informing habitat management, guiding policy, and influencing conservation decisions. 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.

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

• Ability to walk 3- 6km, often on wet and uneven terrain.
• Identification skills of Lapwing, Snipe, Redshank, Curlew and Corvids
• Or an interest in increasing your identification and survey knowledge.
• Ability to complete the surveys as an individual or in small groups.

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.

This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact for species, nature and the environment. You will have a chance to develop hands on experience and skills around surveying. An opportunity to be out in nature and benefit your own health and wellbeing, this role will suit someone who enjoys being outdoors. You will have to observe wildlife closely, which is wonderful if you take enjoyment from the natural world. Monitoring can often take you to the same places time and again, so you will see the season changes. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to develop your volunteering with the RSPB and contribute to our Saving Nature strategy by taking on this role.