Program Photos
Wildlife Rehabilitation & Rescue, Amazonian Ecuador
Location: Ecuador: Rural Areas
Term: Throughout the year
Program Duration: 5-8 weeks, 7-12 months (includes high school academic year abroad), over 2 years, 9-12 weeks, 1-2 years, 3-6 months (includes high school academic semester abroad), 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Ongoing
Call Us
Phone: UK +44 (0) 207 193 2652 / USA +1 (415) 315 9942
Description
The Amazon is undoubtedly one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet, home to some of the world's most exotic animals sustaining millions of plant and animal species. Unfortunately, however, it is also a major hotbed of animal trafficking- the illegal trade of wild animals for profit. Animals from the Amazon are often taken from their natural habitats and smuggled primarily to Europe, the United States and Asia for pets, or for their skins and furs. Over 80% of these animals die before they reach their destination, and those who do live generally face lives of deprivation.
This project will place you at a rescue centre for trafficked and abused Amazonian animals, located on 250 acres of rainforest. Animals confiscated by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Environment and the police are brought to the centre where a resident veterinarian gives them their first check-up in the centre's clinic. There are currently 50 animals cared for in the centre including capuchins, tamarin and woolly monkeys; many species of parrots and macaws; kinkajous and small mammals; and sometimes felines.
You will help care for the animals, as well as continue to construct enclosures and trails to improve the centre. You will also help in the rehabilitation and release programs for the animals. If animals are too injured or imprinted release, you will give them a chance to live as naturally and comfortably as possible. If you are passionate about animal rescue and ready to delve into the Amazon this project is for you!
Highlights
A typical day starts with feeding the animals and cleaning their cages at 7.30 a.m. After breakfast you will work with the centre's staff and other volunteers on maintaining and keeping the park clean, or building new trails and enclosures. The animals get fed again at 3 p.m. But there is also time to explore the land, relax by the river, or swim in nearby waterfalls.
The centre places importance on outreach, education, and research, and plans on implementing local educational programs as well as welcoming international students and researchers. This is a flexible project and your interests and abilities will definitely be welcome.
Occasionally the centre looks for a volunteer coordinator to help manage the construction and day-to-day work of the refuge. Whichever aspect of the project you get involved with, this is an unbeatable chance to make a difference in an up-and-coming refuge in the heart of the Amazon.
Qualifications
* Min age 18 - Max age 80
* Minimum 2 weeks commitment - 20+ hours a week.
* Enthusiasm and interest to work in wildlife rehabilitation
* Conversational English
* Full travel & medical insurance
* Necessary vaccinations
* Necessary flights & visas
Intern Types
- Agricultural Economics
- Agricultural Sciences
- Animal Sciences
- Agriculture
- Admin (Recreation, Parks)
- Botany
- Environmental Management
- Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
Languages
- English
Cost in US$:
100 USD Project Fee per week + 149 GBP Placement Fee
Cost Include Description:
Includes all food, accommodation, 24/7 support and programme activities
Credit Available
no
Volunteer Types
- Animal Welfare
- Biological Research
- Consciousness-raising
- Conservation
- Cutting Wood
- Digging
- Education
- Environment
- Fixing Fences
- Gardening
- Grassroots Organization
- Natural Resources
- Planting
- Research
- Teaching
- Tree Planting
- Trail Building
- Veterinary
- Volunteering
- Wildlife Surveying
Age Range
Min age 18 - Max age 80This Program is open to
Worldwide Participant. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.
Typical Living Arrangements
- Group living
- Dormitory
Participants Travel to Ecuador
Independently or in Groups
Application Process Involves
- Written Application
Typically The Application Process Time is
1-3 daysGlobal Nomadic Ltd's Mission Statement
Global Nomadic hosts a variety of projects and internships around the world, specially chosen for their ability to enhance career prospects in unique and diverse areas. We seek to specialise in serious placements, catering for those looking to get a foot in the door to the career they aspire to. We put you directly in touch with the project provider, offering a complete and ethical service.
Year Founded
2009
