RSPB – Giving Corncrake ; Habitat Creation Volunteering

RSPB – Giving Corncrake a Home (Habitat Creation)
Details

Closing Date: 15/02/2026

Location:

Ballymena and surrounding area

Salary:
This position is entirely voluntary and is therefore unpaid

Do you enjoy being outdoors and like physical work? We need your help to dig up and wash nettle root/stems (rhizomes) at various sites in Northern Ireland. These are used to create essential habitat for Corncrake on Rathlin Island, their only known breeding site.

What experience do I need?

No experience of digging needed, everything is explained and demonstrated. We then wash the nettle rhizomes and store them in bulk bags ready for collection. Washing the rhizomes is essential making them easily transported and avoids bringing unwanted seeds and invertebrates onto Rathlin. Digging is a challenging task but we will have a lunch break to refuel. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided.

Toilets facilities are available at all sites.

What equipment do I need?

As this work takes place outside in the autumn/winter months warm layers, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear are essential. All digging equipment needed will be provided including gloves but you can bring your own if you wish. We can also provide some waterproofs and wellies for anyone who would like to volunteer but who may not have these items.

What’s in it for me?

Be part of a project that aims to turn the fortunes of this species around, by creating large areas of Corncrake cover on Rathlin in an effort to attract greater numbers to breed.

So come join a dedicated team of RSPB staff and regular volunteers, learn more about ‘Give Corncrake a Home’ project, meet new people, gain experience in conservation, and have lots of “Crex” (Corncrake lingo) in the process!