Surveying woodland birds is reliant on locating and identifying all calling and singing birds, which are seldom seen. The post holder will therefore need to be excellent at identifying woodland birds by sound as well as sight. The surveys will be carried out using territory mapping to record populations of all woodland bird species and applicants will therefore need good spatial awareness and navigational skills, using maps, compass and GPS to locate study plots and accurately map the bird activity and locations.
In order to calibrate changes in woodland birds to changes in woodland structure, the post holder will also be undertaking basic woodland structure measurements so an understanding of vegetation structure in woodlands and an ability to identify basic woodland plants, trees and shrubs will be an advantage. Following the surveys in the field, data must be collated and the results entered into spreadsheets. Attention to detail, as well as accuracy and completeness of recording is necessary in the field and during data entry to maximise the value of the data collected.
The post holder will be responsible for undertaking their own share of the surveys for project monitoring, as well as coordinating and line managing 3 woodland bird monitoring assistants, including allocating sites, keeping tabs on progress, overseeing and ensuring accuracy of data entry, and keeping to schedule.
The work will be physically strenuous, working in habitats and terrain, including steep slopes and dense vegetation, that can be difficult. The work will also need flexibility in working hours in order to carry out surveys during early mornings and in the best available weather.
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