Overview of the role:    

Nightingales are a priority species in Surrey. To understand how best to support them, we need accurate information about where they are found and how their populations change over time.

By taking part in these surveys, you’ll help collect information as part of a wider citizen science project, working alongside Surrey Wildlife Trust staff and other volunteers.
    
Time commitment:    

Flexible. You can fit this volunteering around a busy schedule and take part when it suits you.
                            
Locations:    

Surveys can take place across Surrey. Volunteers are responsible for ensuring they have permission to access land, unless surveying from a public right of way.
            
What’s involved:

You’ll head out to survey areas across the county to record the presence and number of Nightingales.

Activities include:

• Listening for and recording Nightingale song
• Recording survey results using an online data collection platform
• Submitting records via the Survey123 app
• Following Surrey Wildlife Trust's lone working and health & safety guidance

You’ll need a smartphone with the Survey123 app installed (available via app stores).
                                
Skills and experience:    

No previous survey experience is required, but:

• A basic level of bird identification, particularly by call, would be helpful. We will provide a sound recording to help you
• You should be comfortable walking for extended periods, sometimes on uneven or steep ground
• You’ll need basic IT skills to submit records using Survey123
• Good organisation and record-keeping skills are useful

By volunteering, you could:

• Spend time outdoors and explore new wildlife sites in your area
• Learn species identification and survey techniques
• Contribute to protecting a priority species
• Be part of a wider citizen science project supporting nature recovery

Next steps:    

To take part, you’ll need to register as a volunteer. Once registered, you’ll receive further information to get you started.

Age guidance:

• Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (who must also register as a volunteer).
• Volunteers aged 16/17 can attend unaccompanied but must complete a parent/guardian consent form before taking part.      

Equality, diversity and inclusion:
                                    
Surrey Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse volunteer programme where everyone feels welcomed, valued and supported to take part.

Apply now