Kath Thorne

Senior Ecologist

Please describe the work that you do.

I specialise in protected species surveys for dormice, bats, badgers, great crested newts, water voles and otters. I undertake initial surveys to determine the habitats and potential for protected species and then recommend avoidance and mitigation to minimise the impacts on these habitats/species. I am currently the lead ecologist on a large flood defence and ecology mitigation project. This involves working with the contractor to build the flood defence, protecting the habitats and species across the Site.

What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?

I love that no day is the same, it’s mostly based in the field and that I get to work with a variety of people and species. I dislike that we’re often not involved in projects until after the design has been created!

What inspired you into this career?

I studied Animal Management at college and then Animal Science at university and have always been very passionate about British wildlife and rehabilitation. I loved the idea of influencing the way projects are undertaken and inputting into the design of new developments to benefit wildlife and minimise any conflict with nature.

Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?

I have faced some challenges including a lack of funding for training and a lack of time to undertake Continuing Professional Development!

What education/training did you have?

I completed a BTEC in Animal Management and a BSc in Animal Science. Since working full time I also completed an MSc in Advanced Wildlife Conservation in Practice.

What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?

Try and gain as much experience as possible, even if it’s attending talks/walks with your local bat group or volunteering one evening a week as a call handler for the Bat Conservation Trust. Any experience will benefit you, including non-ecological experience!