Vulture Rescue Namibia

  Namibia

Rural Areas

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: 1st of each month

Description: The Rare & Endangered Species Trust (REST) was established in 2000 to support the scientific and practical study of rare and endangered species in Namibia. REST works with some of the lesser-known endangered species and specifically concentrates on studying the Cape Griffon Vulture.

As part of this wildlife conservation volunteer project you will be working with the American born Founder - Maria Diekman, getting involved with all aspects of the trusts activities and experience animal conservation in Africa first hand. REST is based in the centre of Namibia and offers a very comfortable way to volunteer with endangered animals. The majority of the work is on site and the accommodation provided is a very high standard including en-suite bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen.

In 2000, the future of the vultures was in great danger, as it was soon discovered that there was only approximately 8-11 left. Due to the wildlife conservation and educational work of those at REST, their future is looking much more secure. You too can now contribute to the long-term survival of the vultures and other endangered species.

Highlights: There are no set schedules for your day-to-day conservation activities and the hours will vary depending on the work you are doing. Maria will ensure that you have the opportunity to get involved with everything that is happening at REST including:

* Weekly monitoring of wild vulture feed with 350-500 wild birds
* Daily care of captive birds
* Socialisation to humans of wild non releasable birds
* Data entry on observations made
* Retrieval of any injured or poisoned birds
* Interaction with daily visitors to the centre
* Educational programmes with schools and farmers

Several previous conservation volunteers have been privileged to discover and document previously unknown behaviour patterns and contribute to the publication of scientific papers.

Outside of the wildlife conservation project at REST, there are other opportunities to learn and experience Namibian life, you could join the Vulture Defenders and play football with other local teams.

Qualifications: - Minimum age 18 yrs

- No specific skills are required other than a good sense of humour and an open mind.

- International volunteers are welcome

Cost in US$: From 500 GBP

On a weekly basis, a shopping trip will be arranged into the local town of Otjiwarongo. Here you can find a wide variety of shops and supermarkets where you can purchase all your provisions with the food allowance you will have received from the staff at the Rare & Endangered Species Trust - N$350 per week

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Namibia Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Other
• Phone Interview

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

Twin Group - Work and Volunteer Abroad's Mission Statement: To provide the highest quality and the best value services to students, clients, suppliers, agents and partners in the worldwide delivery of language courses, travel, training and employment services.

Year Founded: 1993