Dream chance to work among the birds

People standing on wooden platforms on Bempton cliffs look at swooping seabirds on a sunny summer's dayImage source, Crispin Rolfe/BBC
Image caption,

Crowds flock to RSPB Bempton to catch a glimpse of seabirds

  • Published

Sufferers of pteronophobia (fear of feathers) or acrophobia (heights) need not apply…

RSPB Bempton in East Yorkshire, which is home to England's largest breeding colony of gannets, is looking for someone to spend a minimum of four months living among the seabirds.

Duties of the "residential volunteer" will include monitoring the birds and welcoming visitors.

Starting from March, the successful candidate will live in shared accommodation in the village of Bempton, about a mile (1.2km) from the reserve, with vistas out over the North Sea.

Image source, Danny Lawson/PA Wire
Image caption,

The 400ft (121m) cliffs are home to 250,000 breeding seabirds that return each year to nest

The RSPB said it is looking for a "passionate, hands-on individual" who is looking to gain a "well-rounded experience volunteering on a flagship RSPB reserve".

While specialist knowledge of seabirds is not necessary, the charity said the successful candidate needed "enthusiasm for wildlife and an interest in conservation".

Image source, Danny Lawson/PA Wire
Image caption,

About half a million seabirds gather at Bempton between March and August to raise their offspring

Due to the exposed, clifftop location, the volunteer - who would ideally agree to a six-month position - must be comfortable working outdoors in all conditions.

Further details about the vacancy can be found here, external.

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