Spurn National Nature Reserve is a nationally and internationally important site, and is classed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.

As part of our plan to ensure that Spurn is effectively managed, we use ‘conservation grazing’ to improve species diversity across the reserve. Our Hebridean Sheep and Highland Cattle graze and remove areas of competitive tall growing grasses, keeping soil nutrients low and thereby promoting wildflower growth in our meadows and fields. Grazing animals also remove grass to create patches of open, bare ground which warm up very readily in the sun. Warmth is very important for both invertebrates and reptiles. These grazed areas also encourage ground nesting birds like skylark and meadow pipit to nest.

Our livestock play a crucial role in our wildlife conservation efforts, and our reserve team need the support of enthusiastic and eagle-eyed volunteers to visually check our sheep and cows on a daily basis. This helps ensure they are in good condition and remain within the areas they are meant to be grazing.

For more information please read the Volunteer Livestock Checker role description below, if you would like to apply please send your completed volunteer application form to volunteering@ywt.org.uk