I first found out about this EVS project in Malta from an environmental website in the UK. The project really stood out for me as it included a lot of work with seabirds, which are my main area of interest. After the application process, and a nerve-wracking interview, I was offered the position and accepted immediately. Only after that I began to wonder if I was making a huge mistake! The thought of going to a country I knew nothing about, where I would be living on a basic allowance, seemed a very daunting task. To be honest, I very nearly didn’t make the trip to this little rock in the Mediterranean Sea, but now, after nine incredible months, I am so glad I got on that plane.
Matt steering the yacht during boat-based observations
The work itself with Birdlife Malta has been very challenging at times but has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The work with seabirds, mainly the Yelkouan Shearwater, has included boat based observations, learning to abseil and spending nights in sea caves and has been a truly unforgettable step on my career path. The boat based observations in particular have been a real highlight of my time in Malta. It gave me the chance not only to learn more about seabird research and monitoring, but also to witness some incredible wildlife spectacles. These have included 3 species of dolphins bow riding the yacht, sometimes with their young, over 50 turtles in a day, somersaulting Manta Rays and leaping Swordfish and is an experience I will treasure forever.
Apart from work, the time in Malta has been completely life changing for me. I have grown so much as a person here and I now live the life I have always dreamed of. I have met some incredible people along the way, who I will forever now know as my Malta Family.
| |
Matt (second from left) with volunteers on BirdLife yacht |
I am now at the end of my EVS project here in Malta and I am getting ready to go on an adventure I would never have even imagined 9 months ago. For me this EVS project has been an amazing success. I have been able to explore a new country and way of life and seen huge changes in my career path and me at the same time. I would definitely recommend an EVS project to anyone who is interested in seeing a new country at a level more than just a tourist would. I would really recommend this Birdlife Malta EVS project to anyone who wants to make a positive contribution to bird conservation in Europe.
As I get ready to leave Malta I am taking with me new skills, incredible memories and friends for life. I want to thank both EVS and Birdlife Malta for the incredible experience I have had.