My first survey season as an Assistant Ecologist

With my first survey season over and 2024 already upon us, it's the right time to reflect on my experience as Assistant Ecologist during 2023, whilst providing a visual summary of all we've achieved as a team.

One of the joys of the survey season is the daily variety it offers. Each day brings something new to the table, keeping me on my toes. From conducting fieldwork, to report writing, and diving into more technical tasks like bat call analysis and GIS mapping, this role has allowed me to be involved in a wide scope of activities. I have also had the chance to see some amazing sites including an array of beautiful and unique heritage buildings.

My fieldwork this year has involved surveying for an array of species including; bats, newts, badgers, otters, birds, dormice, reptiles and more. both assisted and independently, alongside performing Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) and habitat condition assessments for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). This season has also offered me unforgettable firsts, like witnessing roosting bats and holding a great crested newt!

The collaborative environment fostered by Wildwood Ecology | Certified B Corporation™ has allowed me to learn from the team’s wealth of experience. Starting as a newcomer at the beginning of the season can be a tad daunting. Yet, over time, I found my rhythm and seeing my skills progress has been immensely rewarding, increasing my own confidence in my abilities.

As I reflect on the takeaways from this season, I've realised that it's the best pathway to gain experience across a broad spectrum of tasks, crucial for aspiring consultants. With the right support, the experience extends beyond breadth and delves into the depth required for a holistic understanding of the field. For many early career ecologists in seasonal roles, leaving the position at the end of the summer can leave an impression that working in ecology is one long intense stretch as you never see the winter period. However, starting my assistant position, an important lesson learned is that despite the summer’s intensity, it passes quicker than you might think. The key is to make the most of it without wearing yourself down and staying open to the continuous learning curve that ecology presents. There's a perpetual truth in the field of ecology – there's always more to learn.

In preparation for the next season, I'm engaging in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to gain new skills and stay updated with policy and guideline changes. Trying not to let my identification skills fade and polishing my office-based capabilities are on the agenda to ensure I'm well-prepared.

From muddy fieldwork and bat-surveying at sunset to analysing results in the office, the role is a dynamic blend of experiences that cultivates a diverse skill set. This unique mix appeals to those searching for a career that goes beyond the confines of a traditional work routine. I’ve greatly enjoyed learning from those around me and discovering the varied niches within ecology. Let’s see what the next survey season brings.

Josie Waller Assistant Ecologist