Background
Freelance mountain guide Manouk Wilkinson wanted to increase her knowledge of nature and wildlife in the Cairngorms. She applied to the Networks for Nature Fund for a grant towards wildlife identification courses.
These would focus on local bird and plant species, and help Manouk to pass on her knowledge in her teaching and guiding work, and potentially, on surveying projects.
The Project
Manouk signed up for multiple courses in bird, plant and mammal identification, building on her prior knowledge each time. As well as indoor sessions, the course took Manouk and her fellow students out in the field.
Manouk says: “My nature knowledge, understanding and skills have all grown significantly. I have been able to confidently share said knowledge in guiding context and when out and about with friends, family, and students. I’ve been enjoying my surroundings more myself, seeing and hearing things I wasn’t able to notice before, paying more attention to details.”
Impact
With her newly skills and new confidence, Manouk started undertaking peat depth and condition surveys.
“Being able to identify key species such as sphagnum mosses and important wildlife, I enjoyed this branch of freelance work, which is new to me. After a few months of doing this alongside my teaching, I managed to get a temporary traineeship in the natural heritage sector. Having learned about the species relevant to this traineeship has been incredibly beneficial in furthering my career.
“I have also taken on a Wetland Bird Survey patch within the national park to hone my skills and make use of them in a meaningful way. When I finish my traineeship, I am planning to venture further into other voluntary roles, for example for the local RSPB reserves or the National Park.
“I hope to combine my knowledge and practical skills in either continued freelance outdoor work, or a job within the national park in which these skills play a key role. I would not have been able to make this career shift without the knowledge and skills I’ve built up throughout the last few years, partially enabled by the Networks for Nature Grant.
“This funding made a huge difference: it made it possible for me to fulfil a variety of courses within a year that I otherwise would not have been able to. It has helped me develop my career towards the direction of ecology and conservation.”
