This week is my 20th anniversary of becoming a volunteer at WWT Llanelli (it was 13th June 2005 that I started). It`s been a privilege to have been able to work, when time has permitted, in such a wonderful environment and with a great group of people.
I spent the first ten years working in the Grounds, mainly at weekends, and doing just about anything that was needed to be done and were, of course, within the boundaries of volunteering. For instance, using certain power tools and driving tractors etc are left to the main staff that have those responsibilities. However, over those years I carried out a wide range of work, and along the way met with many visitors, and got to know a number of more regular `birders` too.
Ten years on I moved to the Reserve area of WWT Llanelli, initially carrying out photography for the Centre and compiling sightings reports. Since then things have developed over the years, and have regularly helped with Walk with the Warden, Dawn Chorus walks, Tide watches for the Photo Club and the annual High Tide watch, visitor engagement, etc.
One of the main projects I have been involved in for the last few years has been the monitoring and data compilation of Kingfisher breeding information on the Reserve. This has been an eye-opener, as it has helped understand feeding patterns, territorial action, etc, all discretely. Over time you can identify patterns in their behaviour.
Over the years some volunteers and staff have changed, but I would like to thank everyone for their friendship and teamwork. It`s been like working in a family, and i`m grateful to have met so many good people during those 20 years.
Here`s to the next how-many years of volunteering!
