The PhD Project was awarded a generous grant from Sea-Changers, a marine conservation charity, to support our drone-based seal research at the Ythan Estuary. This funding is crucial for providing the on-the-ground assistance needed to ensure safe and effective drone flights, while safeguarding the delicate wildlife of the reserve. It's all the people on the ground who make my research possible. I’m excited to introduce Mike, read on to hear his reflections on the role! Among all my days as a Drone Observer intern one stands out in particular. Its 06:00 on a Saturday morning. Many people are tucked up asleep and may be for hours yet, but not me. I’ve just woken up to head to SRUC to meet Claire for my third shift as a Drone Observer intern. I stumble downstairs and into the kitchen to make a much needed coffee. I am normally lucky enough to be able to see the sea from the kitchen window – today, all I can see is haar! Fuelled and caffeinated I head off for SRUC. As I drive ove...