National Marine Week Showcase - Meet Ella | The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales

For this year's National Marine Week, we are celebrating the work of our young marine conservationists at The Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales!

Meet Ella

Ella is one of our fantastic Skomer Island volunteers! For National Marine Week, we asked Ella about her experience volunteering on Skomer, her journey into marine conservation and why she is passionate about protecting marine life.

Tell us about your journey into marine conservation!

"A key inspiration that has led me to volunteering is my concern for marine life and ecosystem conservation. Throughout school and during my geography degree I have learned how plastic, in particular micro plastics, are having a severe and somewhat unnoticed impact on marine wildlife. Therefore, I feel that volunteering in this sector is a small but very important step into preserving marine ecosystems."

What is it like volunteering on Skomer Island?

"As a younger volunteer I was somewhat apprehensive before starting my week long residency on Skomer. However, the reception to which I received made me feel so comfortable. One of many highlight of my trip would have to be learning from the experience of the other volunteers. I was fortunate to be competing the volunteering week with many knowledgeable individuals who expanded my knowledge on birds and shared many amusing stories with me. It was without a doubt the people on Skomer that made my week so enjoyable."

What's your favourite marine species?

"Unsurprisingly, I would have to say that my favourite marine species is the Atlantic puffin. The unique appearance of an Atlantic Puffin is somewhat striking when considering their size and vibrant colours. The breeding behaviour of Puffins is also a trait that should be admired. Nesting in their thousands and returning to the same burrow year on year is an astounding site which I will never forget after my visit to Skomer."

Why are you passionate about protecting our seas?

"Throughout my BSc Geography degree I have learned of the importance of the ocean. Oceans play a significant role in mitigating climate change and therefore must be protected. By protecting and conserving marine wildlife, the carbon sequestration capacities of the ocean can be preserved to help mitigate the impacts of climate change."