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- Tasks: Help monitor and protect the endangered Curlew in a beautiful natural setting.
- Company: Join the RSPB, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting wildlife.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training, and meet like-minded nature enthusiasts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife conservation and help reverse species decline.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for nature; experience in bird monitoring is a plus.
- Other info: Work in a friendly team and contribute to vital environmental efforts.
Closing Date: 31/05/2026
Location: Enniskillen
Salary: This position is entirely voluntary and is therefore unpaid
Do you want to play a vital role in monitoring and protecting Curlew? Curlew struggle to breed successfully in many parts of the UK. Northern Ireland curlews specifically have declined by 82% since the 80’s, with only an estimated 250 pairs left we are in a race against time to stabilise and reverse this population decline. The RSPB has been working in the farmed landscape around Upper Lough Erne over a number of years to tackle these problems and is seeking help with some aspects of this work.
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals, preferably with some experience in monitoring breeding birds, to assist us with undertaking breeding Curlew pair monitoring and nest protection between April and July. This role will include some or all of the following:
- Monitoring suspected Curlew breeding sites to identify the location of pair territories.
- Assisting with the erection of temporary nest protection fences (if nests are found).
- Nest monitoring (if nests are found).
- Administration as required.
This role will require some key general skills, but a full induction, training and on-going support will be provided.
What’s in it for you? This is a hugely rewarding role and offers the opportunity to make a real impact for nature and the environment. As a Species Protection Volunteer you will have a chance to work as part of a team and meet new, like-minded people whilst gaining hands-on experience of specific species protection. We will offer training and induction to ensure that you are prepared for the specific needs of the role. You will be contributing to our Saving Nature work programme, so we are able to better protect key species like the Curlew and their habitats long into the future. We like to think we’re a friendly and welcoming team, so you’ll have the opportunity to make new friends too.
RSPB – Curlew Monitoring & Protection (Lough Erne) Volunteering in Enniskillen employer: Northern Ireland Environment Link
Contact Detail:
Northern Ireland Environment Link Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land RSPB – Curlew Monitoring & Protection (Lough Erne) Volunteering in Enniskillen
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the RSPB and their mission! Research their work on Curlew conservation and be ready to chat about it. Showing genuine interest can really set you apart from other volunteers.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current volunteers or staff. Reach out on social media or local events to connect with people already involved. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see an opportunity to help out, whether it's through social media or community events, jump in. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to the cause.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace RSPB – Curlew Monitoring & Protection (Lough Erne) Volunteering in Enniskillen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for nature and conservation shine through. We want to see why you care about protecting the Curlew and how you can contribute to our mission.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you've got any experience with bird monitoring or working in conservation, make sure to mention it! Even if it's just a hobby, we love to see how your background aligns with what we're doing.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your skills and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Ireland Environment Link
✨Know Your Curlews
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about Curlew and their breeding habits. Understanding their decline and the importance of monitoring will show your genuine interest in the role and the RSPB's mission.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This position is all about passion for nature and conservation. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for wildlife protection and how you can contribute to the team. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your experience with bird monitoring or similar activities. Think of specific examples where you've demonstrated skills like teamwork, problem-solving, or attention to detail, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready about the role or the RSPB’s projects. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about how you can make a difference in protecting the Curlew.