First Impressions of a Placement Student
My role
My role as the reserve placement student involves taking part in practical tasks, and maintaining the site. I chose to do my university placement with WWT as I appreciated the efforts they go to for wildlife conservation. I have always had an interest in wildlife, and studying environmental science at university has helped me realise that I would like to go into some sort of wildlife conservation. Doing my placement with WWT will help me gain valuable skills and knowledge for my future career.
First impressions
When I first joined WWT I was impressed with the size of the London site, having only come here when I was much younger, I hadn’t realised quite how big it was. Having a sight this large focusing on conservation this close to central London is great especially as it attract a massive range of birds, from different wildfowl to birds of prey.
Visual – what I like
I enjoy coming into work every day, as I like the fact that I am constantly outside and knowing that the tasks I am doing are contributing to wildlife and the environment in some way, with the tasks that I’m taking part in benefitting the birds. I am quite fond of opening up the reserve when there’s not too much noise and you can just listen to and watch the birds go about their business, I find it quite relaxing, and sometimes entertaining observing their different behaviours.
Favourite place on the reserve
My favourite place on the reserve is wild side and the wild side hide. I enjoy the wild side hide as it has all the small birds at the feeders, and sitting down have great views of all the water birds enjoying the reservoir lagoon. There’s plenty of wildlife, whether it be dragonflies, fungi, birds, or flowers, there is always something that will catch my eye. It was also the first location I’ve actually seen and continue to occasionally see a Kingfisher.
Favourite wildlife
My favourite bird that I’ve seen so far is a Kingfisher, their colours are incredible! And I’m looking forward to hopefully spotting an Owl. I’ve seen owls in captivity, but never in the wild which I think would be amazing, especially as they have always been my favourite bird.
What I’ve been doing
I’ve been working alongside the reserve team and volunteers taking part in numerous tasks, such as cutting back reeds, coppicing tree blocks, and creating wood chip as well as general maintenance tasks, to help benefit the different birds and also for aesthetics. Coppicing tree blocks will help the trees to grow back shrubbier so it attracts more small birds of interest such as the Warblers.
What I’ve learnt
When I first started I didn’t know too much about birds, and I am now being able to pick up more on identifying birds through binoculars and by sound. I am also taking on board what the reserve team do and how this will benefit birds, particularly the migratory species, providing a stop off point on their journeys.
What I’m excited for
I’m excited to work through the autumnal and wintery months so I am able to spot the different birds that are so musical in the trees and hedgerow. I am also excited to be able to watch our hard work pay off with lots of special migratory birds making the most of our site.
