Celebrating the amazing rangers of the South Downs National Park
World Ranger Day took place recently, so we thought we would catch up with our of our Rangers, Kirsty Murray, who swapped police patrols for nature walks on heathlands.
What did you do before becoming a ranger?
I was a Detective Sergeant in the police.
What inspired you to become a ranger?
I’ve always loved spending time outdoors and caring for nature as a way to support my wellbeing. I also enjoy practical tasks and problem solving. I started volunteering with the South Downs National Park to give something back to the places I care about, but quickly realised that being a Ranger was a way I could have a job that allows me to do all of these things and more.
What does your average day look like?
Spending time out on the heathlands interacting with the public and getting to meet lots of lovely dogs, working alongside partner organisations to help enhance heathland habitat or planning our next volunteer task, highlighting issues that affect wildlife via pop-up events, such as dog disturbance or wildfires. During the summer we also attend lots of community events and provide guided walks to the public, one of my favourite things is seeing the joy on people’s faces when they hear a nightjar or see a bat in flight for the first time.
What’s one similarity with being a ranger and being a detective?
Collaborating with partner organisations on projects.
Why do you love the South Downs National Park?
We’re so lucky to have such rare habitat on our doorstep. These areas are fantastic for biodiversity but also are a great example of the cultural heritage of the South Downs. As the most densely populated National Park in the UK it provides a fantastic opportunity for people to experience such a beautiful landscape close to home.
What would be your biggest tip to anyone aspiring to be a ranger?
Volunteer in any way you can, there are so many different ways to do so. Any experience you can get, big or small, will help you learn about the landscape around you.