After graduating university in Marine Zoology, I was excited to find and be given the opportunity to work as a residential volunteer with the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, based at Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe Dunes National Nature Reserve. Alongside developing practical skills in habitat management and maintenance, I was especially privileged to be involved in the grey seal pupping season at Donna Nook National Nature Reserve.

The seals began to arrive in late October, with the first pup born on 29 October. It was amazing to observe the birth of the pups, the relationships between cows and their pups and the interactions between all the seals hauled out. Each one had their own personality! Early morning starts on the reserve were magical – moments alone with these wild animals, reflecting on how fortunate I was to witness nature in this way. Each day brought something new and different; it was exciting to witness three entirely black pups (only one in four hundred shed their lanugo, or natal fur, to reveal a black coat) and a controversial sighting of possible twin pups (cows typically carry one pup per gestational period).

Talking to the many members of the public who visited the reserve was a great way to share my knowledge and increase awareness of the importance of protecting our seas and natural environment. I found these discussions rewarding and have been inspired to pursue a career in teaching following my time with the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. Topics regarding conservation and environmental protection are now more important than ever, and I will use my experiences and memories from my volunteering role into my classroom to inspire the next generation of nature’s advocates.