 Re: What to do....
Your question is a common one. You say you want to work in conservation now do you mean research e.g Universitys, zoos,BBC, government authorities like CEH for example or charity survey field work e.g wildlife trusts. Or conservation through ecological consultancy. Which involves survey work report writing advising developers.
Once you know what area you want to go into you can focus your time rather than a scatter gun approach. I suggest that a survey license for a EPS European protected species is a must what ever area you decide it is marketable in an interview and shows commitment to conservation GCN, Dormice and bats are the most useful licences to hold, although now they are all beginning hibernation. GCN in the new year might be a good one with the survey season from March to June you can probably get some experience with local wildlife trusts, amphibian groups or a consultancy.
I know competition even for volunteer work is difficult I have been there put yourself in the employers shoes what is the goal of the job and what skills would help achieve that with the least cost. We don't like to think about it although training costs employers so you are doing the right thing in my opinion.
Learning your botany is also a valuable skill which few ecologists have. Being able to identify Phase 1 Habitats is easier once you can identify the common grasses and important indicator species. Check (Rose) wildflower book.
I did zoology and didn't want to learn botany although was forced to get a job now I am employed more for my botanical skills as it allows me to advise landscape architects on planting scemes and allows me to undertake NVC surveys.
I hope this helps
Dan  |