Refugio Animal (Animal Refugee)

  Brazil

• Southern Brazil: 
Florianopolis

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: all year

Description: The Animal Refugee is the first scientific breeding center in Brazil especially for otters and other Mustelidae species. The Project keeps orphans or victims from domestic captivity, car accidents or other bad events of endangered species and carry on conservation and research activities. Wild animals are recovered and released the soonest when possible. The studies developed are not only focused in the behavior and ecological aspects of the species but also, on the social, cultural and economical aspects of the communities involved. This guarantees the design and implementation of a successful environmental education program with local children, together with the local association. Volunteers help out at the refugee with feeding, cleaning, veterinary assistance, cages enrichment, building shelters, research and children and community environmental education. Although based at Piri Lake, you will be able to make short visits to the other study areas where you will always be accompanied by experienced staff.

Highlights:
. On an attractive island in the south of Brazil, well known for its natural beauties, wonderful beaches, surfing, sailing and scuba diving, you will help animals like river otters and weasels to survive and have a better quality of life.
. Feeding endangered species, difficult to see in the wild
. Protected area, close to local community
. Time off for your own exploration, hiking to mountains or beaches, boat trips, seafood in special places.

Qualifications:
* Minimum age 18, no upper age limit (children with parents accepted)
* You have to speak English or Spanish or Portuguese.
* You should be prepared to share the work and collaborate with the researchers.
* You will have plenty of time to explore the environment on your own. Safety rules, however, must be followed.
* Sense of humour and partnership are most important.

Cost in US$: 360 Euros for each week (7 nights). Children, from 6 to 12, with parents, pays 30 Euros per night.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: There is no a typical volunteer... they are of all social classes, all nationalities, different genders, education level and professional background - a really very diverse and rich environment. The only common thing between all of them is the will to help and make the best for helping the project.

Age Range: 18 - 70

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

Participants Travel to Brazil Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Instituto Ekko Brasil's Mission Statement: Improve quality of life for future generations by maintaining the biodiversity, conservation of ecosystems and threatened species.

Year Founded: 2004