Birds of Prey Conservation Volunteer Program

  Portugal

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks

Description: The Cliff-Breeders international project, developed by ATN since 2000, focuses on the conservation of important bird of prey populations that breed in the river canyons of the Riba-Côa region. Some of these species have a very high priority conservation status according to Portuguese and European laws; such is the case of the Bonellis Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus) and the Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus). Every year, monitoring and habitat management actions are performed at the Côa valley for the conservation of these endangered species. Be a part of this conservation project! During an unforgettable weekend you will learn about these emblematic species and contribute to their conservation through practical experiences and volunteer work in fauna monitoring efforts and ecological restoration activities (rabbit management, pigeon houses recovery, etc). Help ATN protect the cliff-breeders!

Highlights: During the work camp volunteers will be divided into task groups for 3 days and then everyone will have earned some rest and we will have an off day, for visits, relaxing and for you to have an opportunity to get to know the area: Coa Valley Archaeological Park, Douro International Park and Arribes del Duero Park (Spain).
During diner and night there will also be some activities at the camp site: presentations about conservation projects in the region (with guests), interaction with the local community, by some storytelling and discussions about the way people used to live in the region in the past.

Qualifications: This work camp is open to all volunteers over 18 years old, who want different and active holidays. It is essential that volunteers stay for the whole duration of the camp. Work will be done outside, under relatively high summer temperatures, therefore it is important to wear fresh clothing, hat and sun block, but above all you need enthusiasm and interest in nature conservation!

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: 95

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-50

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Portugal Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 5-6

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

ATN - Association Transumancia e Natureza's Mission Statement: ATN (AssociaçãoãTransumância e Natureza) is an environmental NGO working in the Riba-Côa region, Portugal since 2000. The main objectives of this organization are biodiversity conservation and using traditional agriculture activities for preserving the natural habitat mosaic of the region. Important cliff-breeder populations exist and breed in the area: Golden Eagles, Bonelli's Eagles, Egyptian Vultures, Griffon Vultures. ATN is building a network of biological micro-reserves, by purchasing properties near the nesting sites of the birds, in the deep valleys of the Coa, Douro and Agueda rivers. ATN also produces organic olive oil and develops projects for the sustainable rural development of the area, improving the habitat mosaic and encouraging partnerships with local shepherds for the sustainable use of the land for pastures and bush control. Other areas of interest and work are environmental education, rural fire prevention and vigilance, and finally protection of the important cork oak woods in the area.

Year Founded: 2000