RSPB Beach Warden Volunteer

Every Spring, Little Terns return from Africa to the shores of East Norfolk and North Suffolk to breed on our beaches. 

These vulnerable birds need our protection, and with the help of staff and volunteers our project puts up fences around their breeding areas, patrols their colonies, and helps educate beach goers & the local communities about the birds and how to share our shores with them to reduce disturbance.

• If you enjoy being outdoors, then this role will be the perfect opportunity for you. The beach warden role will involve a reasonable amount of physical activity, so it will enable you to keep your fitness levels high, as well as helping your mental health and wellbeing.
• You will be making a genuine contribution to nature conservation, and you will find it rewarding to protect your local wildlife.
• We are a friendly and supportive team, so you can make new friends too. If you are volunteering to learn new skills and gain knowledge about wildlife conservation work, you will find that our team will be more than happy to help you on that journey. We make sure that our volunteers have the opportunity to learn new skills and always have a rewarding experience.

What skills/experience do you need?

• You will need to be able to visit a colony and undertake regular shifts which will be booked via a team rota. This may require walking long distances, often along a beach and possibly negotiating steps down to the beach. You should also be comfortable visiting the colonies in all weather conditions.
• An enthusiasm for coastal wildlife would be beneficial, however, full training will be given allowing you to talk knowledgably to beach users about the project and how to make space for nature so that everyone can enjoy the beach and the local wildlife whilst minimising the impact on the colony’s success.
• Willingness to learn and assist with the various activities that the RSPB undertakes to protect beach-nesting birds.
• Flexibility to volunteer during weekdays, evenings and weekends, as required, to fit in with your availability and situation.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a small team.
• Locations are remote so access to own transport is desirable. Public transport or cycling may be options depending on your location.

Imagine spending time next summer on some of the most beautiful beaches on our coast, directly contributing to the conservation of these wonderful birds. If this sounds appealing, then we would love to hear from you! The RSPB will reimburse you for out-of-pocket expenses travel expenses, we will provide the equipment and any uniform needed for you to complete the role. Full induction, training and on-going support will also be provided.