Nest Protection Training
Nest Protection Training & Capacity Building
Nest protection has long been a sensitive, emotive, but necessary aspect of conservation. The Breeding Waders EIP is at the forefront of developing innovative, ethical, and humane techniques to improve outcomes for ground‑nesting birds in Ireland.
Over the past century, rapid land‑use change and human activity have created ecological imbalances. Generalist predator populations have increased significantly, while vulnerable species—particularly ground‑nesting birds—face growing pressures and a heightened risk of extirpation (local or national extinction).
To address these challenges and enhance national capacity, the Breeding Waders EIP has developed a certified Level 6 Applied Ground‑Nesting Avian Conservation Training Course for Nest Protection Officers in Ireland. This course offers a suite of professional competency modules that together form a comprehensive qualification in Predation Risk Management, helping establish it as a recognised profession and attract new entrants into the field.
Course Structure & Modules
Module 1 – This module assesses practical skills through training days, fieldwork, and a submission of workplace portfolio.
Training Day 1: Proficiency with Rifle & Night Shooting
Learning Outcomes:
- Safe operation, handling, and maintenance of rifles
- Knowledge of relevant legislation, ballistics, shooting positions, techniques, aids, and equipment
- Practical skills in rifle setup, bore sighting, scopes, and moderators
- Demonstrated rifle accuracy and proficiency
- Practical application of night shooting techniques for fox control
Assessment: Range test, safe-handling assessment, written exam
Certification: LANTRA Skills Certified
Training Day 2: Trapping & Fieldcraft
Learning Outcomes:
- Knowledge of safety protocols and field etiquette
- Understanding of relevant legislation, legal equipment, trap types, and timings
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Practical trapping skills, fieldcraft techniques, and effective data recording
Assessment: Field assessment and written exam
Certification: LANTRA Skills Certified
Training Day 3: Shotgun Proficiency
Learning Outcomes:
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Safe operation and maintenance of shotguns
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Knowledge of legislation, shooting techniques, and fieldcraft
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Practical understanding of shotgun use for humane dispatch
- Demonstrated accuracy and handling in shotgun shooting
Assessment: Clay-ground shooting test, safe-handling assessment, written exam
Certification: LANTRA Skills Certified
Training Day 4: Legislation & Health and Safety
Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding of legislation governing nest protection and conservation
- Ability to assess risks and implement appropriate control measures
Assessment: Preparation of a Risk Assessment and Safety Statement, written exam
Training Day 5: Innovation in Nest Protection
Learning Outcomes:
- Knowledge of emerging technologies and innovative approaches to nest protection
- Practical installation and testing of nest‑protection innovations, including data collection
Assessment: Field assessment and written exam
Module 2 – Ecology of ground nesting birds and related predators.
Online: 3 hours per week for 12 weeks including two field trips with reports and online MCQs.
Workbased learning: 250 hours required for qualification.
Learning Outcomes:
- Delivered by ATU
