
Wildlife conservation specialist Thomas Marceau has joined Bird Aware Solent to boost the impact of the team’s work.
Prior to joining Bird Aware, Thomas has been working with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Previously, he worked for the Alderney Wildlife Trust in the Channel Islands, where his job included helping at the island’s puffin colony.
Thomas will be bolstering the use of data collected about Bird Aware Solent’s work to ensure its activities target the right locations in the most effective way.
Bird Aware Solent raises awareness of the ducks, geese, and wading birds that spend the winter on the Solent coastline.
Bird Aware Solent works on coastlines around the New Forest, Southampton Water, Portsmouth, Chichester and Langstone Harbours, and the northern coast of the Isle of Wight. It is formed of a partnership of 19 different local authorities and wildlife organisations.
A team of specialist Bird Aware rangers patrols the Solent coast to help people understand the negative effect of disturbing feeding and resting birds. The organisation also installs signs and information at important coastal sites to encourage people to look out for birds and give them the space they need.
Thomas said:
‘I’m delighted to be supporting Bird Aware Solent’s important work. By focussing attention on birds that spend the winter on the Solent coast, we can help them thrive.”
Bird Aware Partnership Manager Anna Parry has said:
“We’re excited to welcome Thomas to the team. His insight and expertise in data analysis will help us pinpoint where schemes are having the most positive impact.”