Regular practical tasks are a great way to get outdoors, meet like-minded people and help manage your local reserve for wildlife. We offer mid-week tasks which normally run from 10am till around 3-4 pm throughout the year. Tools, training and light refreshments are provided; volunteers just need to turn up dressed for the weather and with enthusiasm and lunch. Toilets, though, can be few and far between.

The majority of our reserves are open habitats, as these are the best for reptiles and amphibians in Britain. This means we need to keep tree cover down and our winter work is mostly removing small scrub (trees and bushes) to maintain the open nature of our reserves, this can include a bonfire, which is great on chilly days, but can be smoky! In spring and summer, tasks are a mixture of construction (fences, gates, steps), survey, bare ground creation (for sand lizards to lay eggs, invertebrates and micro plants) and hay cuts.

There is something on task for all abilities and ages. Children are welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult. For those looking to progress, there are opportunities to improve your management skills and knowledge through training and experience.

Additional details:

How much does it cost? Free

Is the opportunity accessible by public transport? No

Is the opportunity accessible for wheelchair/mobility-aid users? No

Is adult supervision required? Yes for children

Does the opportunity support people taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh award? No

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) is a UK-based wildlife charity dedicated to the conservation of two important groups of animals. We do this through our staff and our volunteers, by working with partners and by influencing others through advocacy, education and increasing awareness. ARC manages 80 nature reserves, covering over 2,000 hectares across Britain.

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