Fieldwork is an essential part of my research, providing valuable insight into the health of wild amphibian populations and the diseases that affect them.

Working in collaboration with the Garden Wildlife Health Project, I visit ponds across the UK where members of the public have reported suspected ranavirus outbreaks, as well as ponds with no previous history of disease. During these visits, I carry out health assessments and collect non-invasive swab samples from amphibians to screen for ranavirus infection.

By combining field surveillance with laboratory analysis, my research aims to improve our understanding of how wildlife disease is distributed across the landscape and how environmental factors influence its occurrence. This work contributes to the evidence needed to better understand, monitor and conserve amphibian populations.

Fieldwork is one of the most rewarding aspects of my research, combining scientific investigation with time spent studying wildlife in its natural environment.