I had this problem too. Are you coming from findaphd.com? If you go to postgraduateforum.com you should be able to see it properly.

"I think this reflected in the lack of N.American academics we have over here"
Really? we seem to have quite few in our department.

no, behavioural ecology.

Hey Malgwith
I've just had one PhD interview (a couple of weeks back) but was lucky enough to get the place. I was really nervous before mine too and was totally convinced I had no chance of getting it but once I got in there the nerves just left and was able to chat to them quite happily. They did ask me a few questions I didn't know the answers to (some of which I probably should have known) but it didn't seem to matter. In my limited experience they're more interested in your attitude and personality than how much you known, after all they're looking for someone who's easy to work with, not necessarily a genius. It sounds trite, but just try and relax and be yourself and everything will be fine.
Hope it goes well!

Hey bluetooth,
I'm the youngest of three, my parents both did PhDs and went into academia - both of them started their doctorates when I was a small child and my older brother and sister were in primary school but they managed fine.

no, actually I'm at St Andrews at the moment and the PhD is at Glasgow - so probably about the same level in terms of prestige (I think). You're probably right though, the university you go may may have some bearing on your chances.

Hey,
your tutor may be wrong about you needing a distinction. I'm due to start a PhD. in a similar field to yours in oct. I'm still an undergrad at the moment and on course for a 2i so I'd be surprised if you'd need a master distinction to get on to a PhD., what did you get for your first degree? If you can show you're really enthusiastic and dedicated to the field, grades may be less important.
Good luck!