Join Operation Wallacea for our field course takes place at the Knepp Estate in West Sussex, at Britain’s premier rewilding site. Since 2002, Knepp has been allowed to return to nature since with minimal human intervention and the reintroduction of large herbivores to shape the landscape. Fallow and red deer, Exmoor ponies, longhorn cattle, and Tamworth pigs replicate the ecological roles of extinct species, while beavers restore wetland habitats.

The results of rewilding has been extraordinary: wildlife has blossomed here and Knepp in now home to increasing populations of nationally threatened species such as Purple Emperor butterflies, nightingales and turtle doves
This course equips participants for emerging careers in wildlife management and nature conservation. It combines traditional conservation methods with rewilding principles and hands-on fieldwork. Volunteers gain experience in surveys for birds, mammals, invertebrates, bats, reptiles, and habitats, as well as biodiversity assessment using DEFRA metrics and carbon calculation studies.

Activities include habitat mapping, bird ringing, camera trapping, and invertebrate processing in collaboration with the Natural History Museum. The programme features a Knepp rewilding safari, evening talks with ecologists, and practical training designed to boost employability in UK conservation. Come with us for 5 days or two weeks!

Full board/meals included.

Additional costs – £35 additional cost to complete your DofE residential with us and travel costs to the Residential site.