George Cope
What employment sector do you work in?
Private Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
6+ years
Please describe the work that you do.
As a senior ecologist, I provide consultancy to guide clients through complex legal and planning processes, ensuring compliance while finding practical solutions to mitigate ecological impacts. My work includes a wide range of wildlife surveys such as aerial bat assessments, Biodiversity Net Gain, and reptile surveys. I help clients protect and enhance habitats, balancing project goals with positive outcomes for wildlife and the environment.
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
What I enjoy most is being immersed in nature, whether I’m climbing trees for bat surveys, or carefully lifting a tin to find an adder or grass snake. Each day brings new discoveries. I’m passionate about changing clients’ perspectives on nature, helping them see the value in protecting wildlife, and making small project changes that bring big, lasting benefits for biodiversity and their developments.
What inspired you into this career?
My passion for wildlife began early, searching for amphibians frogs, toads, and newts with my dad. Those childhood experiences ignited a lifelong interest in nature. During a placement year with the RSPB on a nature reserve, my enthusiasm grew, and I realised I could turn my passion into a career. Since then, I’ve developed my path in ecology consultancy, continually inspired by my peers and colleagues to create positive change for wildlife and habitats.
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
Of course, I’ve faced many challenges as I’ve progressed in my career. Working on difficult, complex sites has pushed me to think creatively and adapt quickly. Learning new skills such as passing the FISC test or mastering aerial tree climbing has been both mentally and physically demanding. However, each challenge has helped me improve and grow as an ecologist. I believe overcoming obstacles is essential for learning, progress, and personal development.
What education/training did you have?
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science – University of Brighton, First Class (1:1)
LANTRA Advanced Deer Management
Natural England Rare Reptile Licence and Venomous Reptile Handling
Accredited Agent for bats and hazel dormice
City & Guilds / LANTRA Level 2 Chainsaw: maintenance, felling, and processing up to 380mm
LANTRA Brushcutter and LANTRA 4×4 Off-road Driving
Level 3 Outdoor First Aid, Forestry and Emergency First Aid at Work, DEFRA Working Near Water
City & Guilds Tree Climbing and Rescue
CSCS Academically Qualified Person
Associate Member of CIEEM (ACIEEM)
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
If you’re starting out in ecology, invest time in developing your identification skills get to know wildlife, flora, trees, and habitats. Understanding relevant legislation and building solid report writing, presentation, and communication skills are all essential. Take every opportunity to join training courses and, most importantly, volunteer. Volunteering offers hands-on experience, helps you build a network of like-minded people, and is, in my view, the best way to grow and progress in this.
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Tags: England, Private sector, Ecologist, Ecological consultant, Ecological surveyor
Date profile submitted: 17/04/2026
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