Our new Species Monitoring Officer – Faith Campion has joined the INCC team for the next few months and will be undertaking monitoring across several different sites that we help manage. Faith joins us as a Student Placement from Cardiff University.
Here is Faith’s story so far……
Hello! I am Faith, a 20- year- old student currently studying Zoology at Cardiff University. This year, I am undertaking a placement year with the Initiative for Nature Conservation Cymru (INCC). Studying Zoology has allowed me to explore subjects such as animal biology, ecology, and conservation, and I am excited to apply this knowledge in a real-world context with INCC.
In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors – including hiking, running, or appreciating the landscapes Wales has to offer. My love for nature has shaped my academic and professional goals, as I hope to pursue a career in sustainability and conservation where I can help promote coexistence between people and wildlife.
I was particularly drawn to INCC because of its values, such as its evidence-based approach to protecting wildlife and its strong focus on community engagement to highlight the importance of conservation. These principles align closely with my own aspirations, making INCC an ideal placement for me.
My placement project will focus on monitoring biodiversity through camera trapping at different INCC sites. Camera traps are an effective tool for recording wildlife in their natural environment without causing disturbance. Using this method, I hope to investigate how different species are using the habitats on site, and how their behaviour varies across both space and time. This research will provide valuable insights into the biodiversity richness of the farms we work on and the nature reserve, while also helping to assess the progress of ongoing conservation efforts at the site.
I am excited about the opportunities for personal and professional growth this placement offers. From gaining hands-on field experience in conservation to developing my skills in research and data analysis, I look forward to learning from experienced conservationists and engaging with my community. I believe the knowledge and skills I gain during my year with INCC will help me contribute meaningfully to wildlife conservation and make a positive impact on the environment in the future.
