Request from SWT for Help with Survey Work
Somerset Wildlife Trust is asking the SOS for help with the 2017 breeding wader surveys in the Avalon Marshes area. They need coverage for Burtle Moor and Catcott Lows. The survey work is not easy because the terrain is very demanding- deepish wet gutters, dense rush, large sites etc.; but it is an exciting environment to survey! They use standard methodology, which requires a minimum of 3 visits. It’s a case of starting within 3 hours of sunrise and walking to within 100 metres of every part of a field, recording breeding wader activity. One or two volunteers are required. Instructions for the survey will be provided
SWT would also like someone to do rare duck and Spotted Crake surveys too. There's always Garganey, Shoveler, Gadwall, Teal and Wigeon around in the breeding season at Catcott and the possibility of Spotted Crake. This survey requires people to go to the Catcott Lows hide and keep an eye open and record what they see. There is no need to walk across the site. For Spotted Crake, it'sjust a question of keeping ears open.
If you think you might be suited have a go at either survey, please contact Roger Dickey at roger.dickey@somersetbirding.org.uk.