Off the Welsh coastline sits the picturesque Skomer Island, renowned for its puffin communities and a favored destination for day-trippers arriving by boat to explore its tranquil surroundings.
While a few fortunate visitors have the opportunity to spend the night at the island’s hostel, most guests opt for a day trip to wander its paths and spy on puffins using binoculars. However, this summer, four fortunate volunteers have the chance to stay on the island for extended periods, with complimentary lodging, in exchange for aiding in conservation activities.
The Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales is offering three extended volunteer positions: one from March 28 to July 4, another from April 25 to August 1, and the third from July 4 to September 30. These volunteers will assist the island wardens, engage with visitors, and monitor the wildlife.
Additionally, there is an opportunity for a Seabird Monitoring Volunteer from May 23 to June 23, ideal for bird enthusiasts willing to learn seabird monitoring techniques to track the seabird population, including puffins and Manx shearwater birds on the island.
The role demands resilience and a willingness to work long hours in all weather conditions, along with a deep passion for nature and adaptability to the island’s unique challenges. Besides monitoring wildlife, volunteers on Skomer Island will also be responsible for welcoming and guiding visitors.
Volunteering on the island offers a chance to revel in its natural splendor, with approximately four miles of mostly unpaved coastal paths offering breathtaking views of various bird species from razorbills to guillemots. The Wick, a secluded inlet, is a hotspot for photography and bird watching, so bringing binoculars or a telephoto lens is advisable. Most visitors can complete the island circuit in about five hours, making stops for puffin sightings and picnics.
For day visitors, boat trips depart from Martin’s Haven in Pembrokeshire between April and September, with reduced services in the final month. Direct boat rides to the island take 20 minutes, or opt for a Skomer Cruise for a leisurely island tour without docking, ideal for those less inclined towards long walks.
Some boat excursions may include visits to the smaller Skokholm Island to the south, known for its large puffin colonies and serene ambiance, perfect for bird watching. Longer trips might extend to Grassholm Island, home to a significant gannet population, presenting a stunning sight of countless birds densely covering the island.
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