As part of our ‘Meet the Team’ blog series, hear personally from our team members about their roles at EcoNorth and more. Today, meet Niamh, one of our Ecologists.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am twenty five years old and I am originally from the Wirral, Merseyside. I studied biological sciences at the University of York before completing my MSc in Wildlife Conservation at the University of Chester. I started at EcoNorth in June 2021 as an Assistant Ecologist and was promoted to Ecologist in April 2023. Since moving to the North East, I’ve fallen in love with the Northumberland hills and coastline, and love spending my spare time walking my dog, Jasper.
Summarise your role at EcoNorth
I lead and assist with a range of field surveys including bats, otter, badger and water vole. I have a particular interest in ornithology and have completed a range of ornithological surveys such as passage, wintering, and breeding bird surveys. I’m also responsible for managing both small- and large-scale projects which involves producing quotes for clients, resourcing, completing desk studies, planning and organisation of surveys, GIS and mapping, and writing ecological reports.
What got you into ecology?
I’ve always loved being outdoors and had an interest in the wildlife around me. Biology was always my favourite subject at school and the more I learned about climate change and biodiversity loss, the more determined I was to play a part in nature conservation.
What do you like most about working as an Ecological Consultant?
I love how varied the role is and how no two days are the same. The range of different projects we work on presents new challenges and allows me to expand my species identification and learn new skills. Also, spending time out in nature is one of my favourite pastimes and as an Ecologist I get paid to do it!
Describe the project you have worked on that you are proudest of. What did you do that worked out particularly well?
I have recently been involved in a large-scale project in Teesside, which involved surveys of non-breeding birds, breeding birds, seals, riparian mammals and great crested newt eDNA. This has been the largest project I have had to manage so far, and with all the different elements to complete at the correct time of year, it has been a challenge. However, it has all gone smoothly with all the surveys and reports now completed to a high standard.
What do you see for the future?
As it is still early on in my career, I have a long way to go with species identification and there is always something new to learn! Therefore, I am keen to continue developing my skills and gaining experience by taking on work on a diverse range of projects. I also plan to work towards getting more protected species licences.
Finally, what advice would you give to anyone starting out?
Take every opportunity available to you and seek out as much survey experience as possible! There are many conservation projects you can volunteer for in the UK or abroad, as well as working as a subcontractor for a local ecology company.
Meet my Dog: Jasper
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m a six month old Golden Retriever puppy who loves to play and cause as much trouble as possible!
What do you like most about coming to the office?
I’m still too young to go to the office as I have so much energy and just want to play with everyone!
How do you help your owner be a better ecologist?
I love going for walks and getting out and about in all manner of habitats which helps Niamh to improve her botany skills!