We recently celebrated Liberty’s first anniversary with the Hawk and Owl Trust, where she plays a key role in a variety of projects. From hands-on reserve management at our Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve in Fakenham, to running school workshops and leading the popular Peregrine Project in Norwich, Liberty’s work is as diverse as it is impactful. We sat down with her to learn more about her journey into conservation, her day-to-day role, and what inspires her most about working with wildlife.
Q. How did your journey with the Hawk and Owl Trust begin?
A. Growing up in rural Norfolk, I was always surrounded by nature – beaches, woodlands, and wildlife have always been a part of my life. That connection to the environment, along with two inspiring A-Level Geography teachers, led me to study for a BSc Combined STEM degree through the Open University, focusing mainly on environmental science. I completed my degree part-time over six years while gaining hands-on experience by volunteering – including at Sculthorpe Moor, one day a week, the summer before I started working for the Trust full-time. I’d done other voluntary roles before, but this one just felt right. When a job came up, it felt like everything fell into place. A year on, I’m still learning something new every day!
Q. What does your role involve?
A. My title is Outreach and Conservation Ranger, which means I do a bit of everything! I work with the outdoor team - Dave, Jake, and our volunteers - on conservation projects, habitat management, and reserve maintenance. I’m also part of the education and outreach team, working with Victoria, our Education and Activities Officer, to organise school visits, public engagement events, and educational outreach in schools. A highlight of my role is leading the Peregrine Project at Norwich Cathedral, where we introduce thousands of visitors to the nesting Peregrines each spring.
Q. What does a typical day look like for you?
A. Every day is different! On the education and outreach side, I spend time planning and running school visits, leading activities like pond dipping and wildlife walks. When working with the outdoor team, it’s hands-on habitat management – right now, we’re cutting reed beds and maintaining boardwalks in preparation for the next season. There’s always something happening.
Q. What do you enjoy most about working in conservation?
A. I love working with school groups and seeing how excited children get about nature. You can really tell when you’ve inspired them, especially during activities like pond dipping. The Peregrine Project is another highlight – we spoke to about 5,000 people last year, and it’s great seeing familiar faces coming back year after year. It’s also incredibly rewarding to see the impact of our work, like when the Marsh Harriers returned to nest after we cleared the reed beds. Knowing your work is making a real difference is an amazing feeling.
There’s a lot more to conservation than people realise. Every decision has an impact on something else. Over the past year, I’ve learned how broad the field is and how many specialisms exist. I’m lucky to experience a bit of everything in my role.
Q: What’s coming up for you in 2025?
A. We’re continuing with reed bed management and gearing up for the Peregrine Project, which starts in April. I’ll be down at Norwich Cathedral with a group of volunteers, scopes and a live camera to help visitors get a glimpse of the nesting Peregrines. Summer will be packed with school visits and family discovery days, so there’s plenty to look forward to!
Q. Do you have a favourite wildlife species?
A. Peregrines are incredible - being the fastest animal in the world is pretty impressive! It’s fantastic to have them nesting locally and to watch them via the live cameras. I also love Tawny Owls; we have a pair on the reserve, and they’re fascinating to watch, especially at night.
Q. What advice would you give to someone interested in conservation?
A. If you’re interested, get involved however you can - visit reserves, donate, or volunteer. Volunteering is the best way to gain experience, meet people, and see if conservation is the right path for you. It’s also a great way to spend time outdoors doing something positive.
If Liberty’s passion for conservation has sparked your interest, there are plenty of ways to get involved with the Hawk and Owl Trust. Visit one of our local Norfolk or Somerset reserves to experience the beauty of nature firsthand, support our work as a member, or take the next step by volunteering with us.
We’ll soon be looking for volunteers to join Liberty at the Norwich Cathedral Peregrines from the end of April. Register your interest via our contact form: https://hawkandowltrust.org/about-us-and-contact/contact-us.
For more information, or to discover other volunteer roles, visit: https://hawkandowltrust.org/about-us-and-contact/volunteering.
