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 Chris, my latest drone observer intern. Read on to hear his reflections on the role! So after the excitement of being taken on for the drone internship the reality of starting this and praying I wouldn’t mess up took the sheen of that initial thrill. Luckily the intimidation of working with Scotland’s seal Queen was allayed upon meeting with the impressive Claire Stanfield. Her easy-going manner and disarming smile, soon put the the fear of dropping a clanger too bed. (hopefully not too big a clanger) A Soft landing was mercifully granted too me for my fir...