Surveyor (Off-reserve) - Black Grouse

Wales is in a climate and biodiversity crisis. Many of our once common species are now at risk of extinction. We need to understand more about these species' population size and distribution.

We are looking for people to help us monitor the black grouse population in north Wales.

The black grouse is a charismatic bird, the males best known for their ‘lekking’ behaviour in spring. The species was once common in mid and north Wales but has suffered drastic declines.

What you will be doing:

You will be part of a team carrying out ‘Coordinated Lek Counts’. These spring surveys usually take place in early spring. They are used to determine the population of lekking male black grouse in an area. This information is incredibly important to help monitor population trends and evaluate the response to the conservation work we do.

We suggest at least two but often three visits. The first in daylight to check suitable habitat and access, this can take place between February – April. The second visit starts one hour before dawn to locate the lek within your monitoring zone. The third visit is on the day of the Coordinated Lek Count. This visit takes place one hour before dawn to count the maximum number of birds in the lek. All monitoring zones are counted on the same day.

Important Information about the ‘Coordinated Lek Counts’:

These surveys must take place early in the morning, you must be at the site at least one hour before dawn. They cover challenging terrain, across the blanket bog, forestry, and deep heather, in low light conditions. Confidence in walking long distances on uneven terrain is essential. You will also need to access remote locations, where often no public transport is available.

We are looking for volunteers with the following skills and experience:

• An understanding of black grouse habitat and lekking behaviour, or willingness to learn.
• Experience of bird surveying.
• Ability to complete surveys as an individual or in a small group.
• Good physical fitness.
• Good organisational skills and ability to keep reliable records of data.
• IT skills for submitting data and keeping in touch.
• Ability to get to remote locations when no public transport is available.

Full training on how to conduct the survey will be provided.

Travel:

Transport with a personal vehicle is required. The sites are often remote and cannot be accessed by public transport.

What’s In It for You:

• An opportunity to make a direct contribution to conserving one of Wales’ most iconic species.
• The ability to learn new skills, both in surveying and data collection.
• An opportunity for personal development.
• Support from a passionate, friendly team.
• An opportunity to be part of a community of enthusiastic volunteers with a common aim.
• An opportunity to be outdoors, benefiting health and wellbeing as well as observing wildlife closely.
• Experience working for a large conservation charity.