Intern Experience by Sophie Will

 he 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 Sophie, read on to hear her reflections on the role! 

In early August, around 7:30am we make our way to the look-out point. The grassy, sage tones of the dunes and birdsong pepper the gorse lining the boardwalk. Woody sounds underfoot soon dampen into soft sand, engaging my senses as we approach the flight zone. The reserve is quietly buzzing with life.

 

Mirrored morning light 

The approach to the seals at the start of each survey is a treasured routine. I absorb the changing features that greet us on each visit – from where the light hits the water to the number of birds on the estuary.  I am particularly fond of the early hours at the look-out point. Due to fewer visitor numbers, we witness the seals resting in their natural formations, covering a wider area; less huddled, and stretched out like a sleepy blanket. By the end of the surveys as 9:00am approaches, almost like clockwork, the seals begin moving up the beach - a protective 'bunching' together. Their natural rhythms anticipating an increase in visitors, perhaps?

The drone surveys are immersive, sharpening my marine observation skills. Intense focus is needed, be it searing sun or rolling haar. During a manual flight, I stay alert to the shifting mist and keep a sharp eye on the drone. I am ready to call out to Claire should she need to abort the flight.

There is a layered soundscape on the beach; bird calls, eider wings flapping, and the seals' soft, musical howls are admired by many. It is shared by several visitors that at peak numbers the seals can be heard from the village in winter. Today there are close to 1000, and their collective calls add to Newburgh's unique sense of place.

                                                                         Newburgh through a new lens

Speaking with visitors from all across the world, from France to Tasmania, is a particular highlight of the internship. Our seal expert Claire's presence on the beach and the knowledge she imparts is welcomed by visitors as they themselves share their observations and curiosity. I observe the seals' responses to visitors on the beach; there is an undeniable connection between the community and nature - an inspiring reminder that we have an active responsibility, sharing their habitat.

The surveys spark questions and intrigue. It is fascinating to hear about Claire's PhD work as we traverse back along the beach, our chatter echoed in the birds' chatter. One topic is fish productivity, where fish numbers may be increasing due to reduced fishing boats around offshore wind turbines – a potential influence for the seals' location.  Another well-discussed topic is the seasons and changing features of each, including textural changes to the sand throughout the year. I look upon my own feet clambering on this shifting terrain and think about the seals' bodies moving across sand.

Claire is approaching her 100^th survey - an incredible milestone giving range and perspective to her work. A second summer of data has meant more in-depth analysis. There is even more to learn by the patterns she has observed across the seasons by comparison.

 

                                                                     Cant beat a survey day

The Internship was a very meaningful introduction to marine surveying, and a chance to bring my conversation skills onto the beach. Repeat visits allowed me to witness a range of survey conditions – such as trepidatious weather or a GPS block that was instated in the area, impacting aircraft flights, - and as it progressed, I developed a greater understanding of the many factors affecting the numbers of seals. Having dipped my toes into the waters of marine conservation, I have come to see Newburgh beach through a completely new lens, inspired to continue in this field of work. The glassy morning shore and howling 'seal soundtrack' firmly rooted me into the late summer. It is inspiring to know the seals' behaviors are being better understood. As we approach the celebration point - Survey 100 - and transition into Autumn, I certainly will be spending a few more mornings in the delight of seal-spotting.