Jaguar Conservation Program in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• Eastern Lowlands: 
Tortuguero

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Please see our website for upcoming start dates

Description: This volunteer program takes you to the heart of Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and gives you the opportunity to become an active member of GVI's research team. You will conduct tracking surveys along the tropical beach and in the heart of National Park forest. You will be searching for signs of the elusive jaguar and their prey species, which include wild boar, deer, tapir and more, as well as setting up remote cameras to try to identify individuals to help estimate abundances.

Run in conjunction with partners such as the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment and Energy, volunteers receive continuous hands-on training on all aspects of the conservation work. Opportunities exist on weekends for rainforest tours, canopy tours, visiting idyllic beaches and white water rafting.

Highlights:
* Getting the chance to go on this unique adventure in a Costa Rican National Park
* Enjoying life at the research station
* Learning about the wildlife and their habitat
* Seeing unique wildlife in marine and coastal rainforest environments including remote Caribbean beaches and tropical rainforest
* Seeing endemic and protected species
* Joining the research team to undertake unique research inside a protected area
* Exploring this wonderful Central American country

Qualifications: Volunteers do not require previous experience as they will work and train alongside GVI Patrol Leaders. Volunteers should be willing to learn, over 18, physically fit, able to swim (300 m fully clothed), be enthusiastic, hardworking and sociable, and have a good sense of humour!

GVI training is second to none and will allow GVI volunteers to actively assist the research. The initial training provides volunteers with a baseline understanding of understanding to build throughout your stay. Subjects covered include survey protocols, key species identification, research techniques and health and safety.

Cost in US$: Please see the GVI website for cost details.

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-65 years

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

Participants Travel to Costa Rica in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998