What is your role in the Predatory Bird Monitoring Scheme?
I am the lead author of the PBMS reports which can be downloaded from our website. I am responsible for promoting awareness of the scheme and present the work of the scheme through presentations to professional, academic and interest groups.
How did you get involved in the PBMS?
I studied for a degree in Zoology at Sheffield University, followed by a masters degree in Ecotoxicology at Reading University. In 1997 I started working at the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, studying the accumulation and effects of heavy metals in small mammals. In 2000 I moved up the food chain and took over the role of Scheme Coordinator from Heath Malcolm. I have thoroughly enjoyed maintaining the scientific and policy focus of the scheme and I am proud of the achievements of the PBMS.
Red kite (Ray Morris Flickr)
What is your favourite bird of prey and why?
Red kites (Milvus milvus) have fascinated me since I went to view a winter roost near Deenethorpe Airfield, Northants. I accompanied Derek Holman, who had been involved in monitoring the red kite population since its reintroduction in the area, and saw about 60 birds all roosting together. I had never seen so many raptors in one place, and since then I have held a particular interest in this species. As part of the PBMS we analyse red kite livers for both lead (Pb) and anti-coagulant rodenticides (ARs). The latest reports can be downloaded from our website.
