Alex Rhodes

Alex is a new recruit to Heatherlea but brings with him some sharp eyes and ears. Originally from the Southwest, he completed a BSc in Zoology at the University of Bristol and was a licenced ringer for a period of 5 years; during which time he frequented Fair Isle as a volunteer and worked at Falsterbo fågelstation in Sweden.

He has been passionate about the accessibility of birding, becoming involved in promoting birdwatching to the younger generation. His work has, in part, led to the availability of grants and financial assistance for youngsters to stay at accredited Bird Observatories and purchase ringing equipment.

When not birding himself, he works as a qualified Mountain Leader and Climbing Instructor leading groups in the mountains and moorlands of Scotland, Snowdonia and Northern England. Some of his most memorable days outdoors involve close encounters with courting Ring Ouzel in remote corries or being tracked by Golden Eagle while climbing on the North Face of Ben Nevis.