20th Jan 2015

Intern required for radio telemetry study of adders in 2015

The National Trust is seeking an intern to assist with a study nvestigating adder ecology. The aim of the project is to better understand adder habitat use and movements over the summer. Studies will
take place from mid-May to mid-August 2015 at two sites near Haslemere, Surrey. Amphibian and Reptile Conservation is advising on the project, which started with surveys in spring 2014.

The project would involve:

• Capturing adders and fitting transmitters
• Radio-tracking tagged adders on a daily basis and recording observations
• Reporting to National Trust, ARC and sponsors (Haslemere Natural History Society) on a monthly basis.

Person requirements:

• Experience with surveying British reptiles, especially adders (no experience of radio-tracking required)
• Experience of fieldwork procedures, including health and safety
• Experience of ecological data handling and analysis
• Report-writing and basic computer skills
• Driving licence and use of car.

National Trust will provide equipment and training. Some funding may be available to cover travel costs. Data from 2014 will be made available, including a month of radio telemetry data.

Note that this is a voluntary position. It might suit a student wishing to undertake a practical fieldwork project as part of their dissertation (student to make arrangements as necessary).

For further details, please contact Matt Bramich (Senior Ranger - South Downs, National Trust): email [email protected], telephone 01428 652359.