2025 Residential Volunteering Roles
Lundy, a rugged island situated in the Bristol Channel Approaches, is a haven for wildlife, steeped in history and archaeology. Approximately 5km long by 1km wide and 18km from the nearest mainland, the unique island attracts many visitors, both for its peaceful surroundings, thriving wildlife, scientific research and so much more. The surrounding waters became the country’s first marine protected area (MPA) while the island itself boasts highly protected terrestrial sites under numerous environmental and heritage designations. As a proud member of the Bird Observatory network, Lundy is also committed to the long-term study of bird populations and migration.
We are delighted to invite volunteers to join the team in 2025 to support the island's important conservation programme throughout the sailing season. No specific qualifications or experience are necessary to apply. However, enthusiastic naturalists working towards a career in conservation will be well placed. Gain invaluable experience immersed in a high-profile wildlife conservation reserve while enjoying the unique opportunities island life has to offer. Our previous residential volunteers have gone onto further study or jobs with Natural England, RSPB, National Trust, Wildlife Trusts, other Bird Observatories and The Lundy Company.
Accommodation and all meals are provided free for the duration of the roles.
Duration of roles vary, see role descriptions below. However, flexible/seasonal dates will be considered for exceptional candidates.
How to apply: Download the full role descriptions and application forms below. Simply send a completed application form to the Island Warden. Documents can be edited using the free Adobe Acrobat Online PDF Editor. Please note, the closing date for all applications is 11:59 pm on 1 Dec 2024.
Any questions or queries, please contact the Island Warden.
Vacant positions
Assistant Ranger 1 Apr to 24 Oct 2025 (seasonal stints will be considered for exceptional candidates)
This wide-ranging practical role supports the Island Ranger deliver habitat management and estate maintenance across the high-profile wildlife conservation site. The role is highly varied, and a flexible approach is essential. LANTRA ATV training will be provided along with one other practical ticket upon completion of the season. The candidate will also be expected to undertake general island duties such housekeeping, recycling, and visitor engagement as required.
Assistant Ranger Role Description
Assistant Ranger Application Form
Assistant Wardens (three positions available)
🪶 Bird Observatory Assistant
🐧 Seabird Fieldworker
🦭 Seal Fieldworker
Become an integral part of the conservation team, delivering the management, monitoring, protection, and interpretation of the island’s wildlife. Work will be varied depending on the specific role, but predominately revolves around wildlife monitoring (e.g. breeding birds and migration surveys, bird ringing, seal census and biosecurity checks).
Assistant Warden Role Descriptions
Assistant Warden Application Form
The three Assistant Warden roles are split into Bird Observatory, Seabird and Seal Fieldworker positions.
Bird Observatory Assistant 3 Mar to 31 Oct 2025 (seasonal stints will be considered for exceptional candidates)
Main responsibilities involve supporting the delivery of all Bird Observatory studies, primarily daily census, bird ringing and migration counts, seabird productivity monitoring, wider wildlife recording and data collection. The successful candidate may also support seal monitoring in the autumn where required. Candidates holding a BTO bird ringing permit will be ideally placed. Complete the Assistant Warden Application Form above to apply.
Seabird Fieldworker 1 Apr to 2 Aug 2025
The role focuses on closely monitoring the island’s seabirds, conducting breeding auk, gull, petrel and shearwater productivity studies and end of season report writing. In-house training will be provided, but prior familiarity with British seabird identification or ecology is advantageous. Complete the Assistant Warden Application Form above to apply.
Seal Fieldworker 2 Aug to 24 Oct 2025
The position revolves around seal studies and protection, primarily daily pup checks, weekly full island surveys, public engagement and end of season report writing. In-house training will be provided, but prior familiarity with Atlantic Grey Seal identification or ecology is advantageous. Complete the Assistant Warden Application Form above to apply.