Congratulations!

One of the members of the Swaledale Ringing Group has just gained a 'C' permit. Not that long ago Eleanor was the youngest ringer in the team as she was only fourteen years old when she first came to Foxglove to learn how to ring. Over that time she has enjoyed many varied ringing activities such as ringing water birds at Teesside.

Her skills as a canoeist came in handy closer to home when ringing Black-headed Gull chicks!

She has enjoyed plenty of exciting opportunities with the group from ringing Storm Petrels and Peregrines to owls and hundreds of passerines. She has always been prepared to get stuck in, not just with ringing but with some of the important habitat management too and in all weather conditions!

Here is a more recent picture!

All ringers require a permit and start off with a trainee license. It usually takes at least a year to progress to a 'C' permit which allows you to work alone, but under the remote supervision of your trainer. Eleanor has taken her ringing a step further and is now studying a PhD in Fulmars and we wish her all the best for the future. Well done Eleanor and keep in touch!