I have extensive experience monitoring a wide range of protected bird of prey species in the UK. I understand the importance of complete transparency in the role of an ecological consultant to deliver your project.

Raptors in their very nature are elusive and secretive in their behaviour and that is why you must employ a consultant who understands the species. I am competent in carrying out desktop studies along with detailed report writing.

I am a strong believer in collaborating with local raptor workers & raptor study groups and feel I am well-connected to assist or recommend if someone else is better suited to support your project.

I have been involved in the use of nest boxes and artificial nest sites for raptors across a variety of species and habitats. This has included the design and construction of nest boxes and the implementation of species-specific schemes for mitigation and monitoring.

I work closely with a nest box manufacturer that I feel is one of the best in the country when it comes to the environmental impact and development of nest boxes. Each project is different and I can support you in the planning, nest box selection, implementation and forward monitoring.

I also have extensive experience in the planning, construction and maintenance of nests for species such as Ospreys & Peregrines.

With a specialism in birds of prey, I’ve been fortunate enough to work on some great productions involving raptors. There is no doubt this group of birds are popular to film but also one of the trickier both in the planning of a shoot and in the field.

I can help with the initial planning stage, supporting researchers and producers with sourcing the science and facts to create a credible story. I can also advise on obtaining the relevant licences for filming protected species.

In the field, I have experience working with crews both in the UK & abroad in a scientific consultant role. I can also support camera operators with rope access and filming from platforms, backed up by a broad knowledge of nest behaviour and health & safety.

Rope access work for me goes with the territory of monitoring nests and subsequently, from climbing up trees and down cliffs to check nests, it has become an invaluable tool.

I have completed several recognised training courses to make sure I can climb safely in a professional capacity. I consider myself competent & safe at rope access and can work in a team and lead in accessing bird of prey nest sites where relevant.

Equally important alongside climber safety is the safety of the species you are climbing for and this is where I can really help your project.

Full PLI held and risk assessments carried out. References are available on request.

I do a lot of this through the charity Raptor Aid CIO but before that, I carried out walks, talks and short courses for a range of organisations.

I have carried out talks for several groups including W.I’s, Rotary Clubs and ornithological societies on my work monitoring birds of prey in Britain. My style is light and entertaining with an emphasis on the role of citizen science. I also get a lot of enjoyment from talking to the younger generation including schools and Brownies/Cubs groups.

I have run short introduction courses into raptor identification and monitoring for wildlife trusts and the Field Studies Council. I am also able to offer these courses virtually to a wider audience.

I’m incredibly proud of the charity Raptor Aid CIO that I founded and currently chair. Small in size but aims to engage and support anyone with an interest in birds of prey and their conservation.

Raptor Aid has recently launched a grant fund to support anyone with a focus on bird of prey conservation. Small grants are available to assist with equipment, conference attendance, nest box schemes, surveying and much more.

I also want to help with early career raptor field workers. If you are starting as an undergraduate, launching your conservation project and need some advice please feel free to get in touch.