A welcomed change (and hello to Ed!)
After a long day at work, I take off my shoes and settle on the couch. I’m back in the man-made world and cut off from nature – or at least that’s what I think...
From the corner of my eye, I see something green jumping around: it’s startled and refusing to sit still. Trapped between the chair and wall, its smooth skin and striped long legs indicate that it’s a common frog. Confused, it sits there glaring and weary as I approach.
Frog in Ed's hand
Having just moved into the cottage on site, it has become apparent that the other placement student is not my only cohabitant. European red slugs, newts, ground beetles and grass moths are just a few of the species who have also found a home in Eastpark One. Despite my initial apprehension towards these visitors, I have realised that the contrast from the homogenous and polluted landscape of Essex is a welcomed change. The reserve is comprised of a broad range of habitats including meadows, salt marsh, ponds and grassland. These produce an extensive number of niches and a biodiversity hotspot, making overspill into the cottages inevitable and well worth it in my opinion!
Hearing the blackbirds, jackdaws and now barnacle geese outside my window (however noisy) is a vast improvement from vehicles and drunk students. Just having the ability to run out in my crocs at 7am to see the sunrise on the reserve is simply unforgettable.
Before I forget I should introduce myself – Hi, my name’s Ed and I’m one of the new work placement students at WWT Caerlaverock. Having travelled from Essex my life certainly has changed recently! However, by living and working on the reserve I have the opportunity to explore, manage and learn about the incredible habitats here. I cannot wait for all the experiences to come but already know that returning to university will be dreaded.
Words and pictures by Ed (Emily) Dixon
