Wildlife Biology internship monitoring rehabilitated Howler monkeys in Costa Rica
Anita F
Project Background:
Wild Sun is a non-profit organization in Cabuya, Costa Rica, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of local wildlife. The majority of our patients are Mantled howler monkeys and we offer 12-week Wildlife Biology internships focused on monitoring their rehabilitation success (both in captivity during their ongoing rehabilitation process, but also in the field after release) and establishing best practice protocols.
Internship description
Interns go through a formal training in their first week at the rescue center and learn animal care and husbandry related tasks (diet preparation, enclosure and equipment cleaning and maintenance, collecting browse and providing enrichment). Subsequently, they spent 3 days a week working on their internships (getting trained on field work and observing behavior, either individually or in a small team), and the other half working amongst the volunteers with animal husbandry.
Animal husbandry experience is valued but not required and applicants should have an undergraduate degree (or be in a later stage of studies) in biology or a related discipline and a strong interest in primate conservation.
Applicants must be at least 20 years old, able to work under sometimes difficult climatic conditions, and comfortable being on their feet for extended periods of time, riding an ATV and spending long days in the field. Prior experience in wildlife biology, tropical ecology, plant ID skills, statistics, field work will be given preference. Strong work ethic, flexibility, positive attitude, ability to conduct work independently and to cope with different weather conditions, bugs and basic living conditions, and of course a passion for wildlife conservation are a must.
If you cannot commit to a 12 week internship but are interested in our program, we do offer shorter-term volunteer appointments, please visit https://www.wildsunrescue.org/volunteer
Start dates: applications accepted on a rolling basis, programs start on sundays
Location: Cabuya, Costa Rica
Program Fee: For the 12 week program, the internship fee is $800+13%tax, plus $360+13%tax for accommodation (shared dorm) which is a donation to the rescue center and helps pay for your utilities while you are here), alternatively, you may upgrade to a shared or private deluxe room at additional cost (see rates on our webpage). Access to a shared kitchen to cook your own meals available, or you may add on a meal plan for $115 + 13% tax/week. Transportation to the rescue center is not included but can be arranged at the participants expense.
For further information on our rates and to submit your application, please follow instructions on www.wildsunrescue.org/internship
Only complete applications (filling the internship application at the above link, and subsequently emailing your CV and a letter of motivation to inter...@wildsunrescue.org) will be considered.