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Chandlers Ford “Falcons” |
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From WildLife Explorer to RSPB Reserve Volunteer by David |
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I joined the WildLife Explorers, lead by Derek, back in 1997. I had always been interested in nature; the Wildlife Explorer’s group gave me an opportunity to learn more about wildlife with the added advantage of being able to attend loads of fieldtrips, where my identification skills were improved.
As my knowledge and confidence grew I joined in helping the WildLife Explorer leaders at the evening sessions and on some fieldtrips. At college I was taking science subjects and I was preparing myself to study zoology at University.
During this time I was looking for opportunities for practical experience in conservation and environmental studies. At last an opportunity presented itself. Whilst waiting for the results of my A levels I asked the RSPB if they would take me as a volunteer on any of their reserves. I was lucky! I was offered the opportunity to be a residential reserve volunteer on Havergate Island, Suffolk, for a week in August 2007.
If you would like to know more about what it was like to be a volunteer on this island please click here.
All the experience gained whilst being a member of the Chandlers Ford Wildlife Explorer and Phoenix Groups stood me in good stead in getting this opportunity with the RSPB. You too could do the same...happy birding.
David Hancock Sept 2007
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