RSPB “Wildlife Ranger” to do what gamekeepers have done for decades

Trainee role and responsibilities

An 18-month Wildlife Ranger Trainee position has been launched as part of the Cumbria Connect restoration programme – and to some, it may sound familiar. The trainee will learn deer management techniques, including culling to prevent woodland damage, American mink removal to protect water voles and grey squirrel control to help red squirrel populations recover. They will also be trained in habitat management and community engagement across the partnership’s estates.

The role is being advertised as a collaboration between the RSPB, Forestry England, Lowther Estate and the National Trust, with potential for national expansion if successful. Laura McMahon from the British Deer Society welcomed the partnership approach, saying it offered “opportunities to the next generation of wildlife managers and conservationists”.

But when our news editor asked what actually distinguishes Wildlife Rangers from gamekeepers, Cumbria Connect’s programme manager Martin Varley admitted many of their duties have historically been “carried out by landowners, gamekeepers, conservation charities or volunteer groups”.

Scope and focus of the role

Mr Varley then argued that gamekeepers are “primarily focused on encouraging healthy populations of one or two species”, whilst the wildlife ranger role would “extend beyond and benefit multi species”. He also claimed the role differs because its aim is “not sport, but nature recovery at scale” – despite conceding it wouldn’t replace gamekeeping but create “a new complementary pathway”.

Many gamekeepers will question this characterisation of their work, which routinely involves managing diverse habitats and multiple species for conservation. They may also question whether the Wildlife Ranger Trainee is gamekeeping in all but name.