Introduction

The Eurasian curlew has declined in England by 31% since the mid-1990s. England holds over 10% of the declining global breeding population which is globally near-threatened, so must take a lead in the species’ recovery. The Forest of Bowland in northern England is an important remaining stronghold for curlew and understanding this population is crucial to the future of the species in England. We are looking for a research assistant to undertake an exciting opportunity to gather data on the success of curlew pairs in Bowland. This role is supported by the National Lottery Green Recovery Challenge Fund. 

What’s the role about

This role involves collecting data on breeding curlew including mapping the abundance and behaviour of breeding curlew on a group of farms in the Forest of Bowland AONB. We are conducting a research experiment into whether the use of anthelmintic drugs in livestock impact invertebrate populations enough to significantly influence curlew chick survival. This role will conduct the fieldwork in partnership with a local vet clinic, focusing on gathering the curlew data over the 2021 breeding season. There will be time at the beginning of the project to conduct a literature review and time at the end of the project for the post holder to write up the findings of the experiment. The duration of the post is anticipated to be from mid-March to the end of July 2021.

What we need from you:

Essential

• Ability to identify curlew and other breeding waders by sight and sound
• Ability to write basic scientific reports and papers 
• Capable of working long hours outside under difficult conditions. Walking long distances over difficult terrain may be required
• Ability to navigate using a map, compass, and GPS
• Capable of keeping accurate and legible records of data collected in the field
• Ability to work under their own initiative with limited supervision, whether alone or as part of a small team 
• Ability to travel to, from and within remote locations not served by public transport

Desirable 

• The ideal candidate will have some fieldwork experience as part of a degree or equivalent course work, or 1 season’s involvement in non-professional bird surveys (e.g. WeBS, BBS)
• Basic statistical skills