CONSERVATION AND BIRD´S SPECIES REINTRODUCTION
Support the reintroduction of macaws, victims of illegal trafficking and ecosistem destruction. Help in the whole recovery, reproduction, adaption and release process.
The project
Private reserve located in the coast of Ecuador, with the original purpose of protecting a hummingbird specie, which is critically endangered and inhabits just in this small area. Although work is still being carried out to preserve this species, one of the most important works is the Great Green Macaw subspecie (Ara ambiguus guayaquilensis) reintroduction. This specie is critically endangered as well, with less than thirty (30) individuals in wild.
The species became extinct from this area more than fifty years ago. The goal is to establish a wild population in the reserve and its surroundings with the support of foundation and parks which work with captive breeding macaws; and in this way, create corridors so that the species can move within a less restricted area.
The project work is done both in the maintenance of the aviary, cleaning of cages, feeding and monitoring of the birds; as in environmental education and community awareness.
Between June and September each year, whales come to visit the Ecuatorian coasts, so you´ll be able to watch them jump and dance, from October to February, turtle´s nesting season is here, and you will work at the nest monitoring and relocation.
Dates/Length
Project available year-round. 2 weeks to 6 months durations available.
Costs
2 weeks – $1750
1 month – $2300
2 months – $3400
3 months – $4500
Each extra week – $275
Location details
The project location is in the Coast. Accommodation is with a host family, 2 meals are included: breakfast and lunch.
Requirements
Spanish level: Basic User A1. Must be 18 and over, with valid passport and health insurance
Itinerary Sample
Mondays to Fridays
8:00 to 16:00 (1 hour for lunch) work in the designated tasks at the protected area (data collection, monitoring of birds, collecting native fruits and seeds for daily food preparation, aviary maintenance and cages cleaning)
Monitoring days
5:00 to 13:00 Fieldwork: Depending on the season, this will include going to the forest and climbing trees to monitor nesting sites.
Role of the volunteer
Assist on the project tasks like data collection, monitoring of birds, collecting native fruits and seeds for daily food preparation, aviary maintenance and cages cleaning; support with environmental education in local communities.
Skills required
This internship is geared towards individuals with a desire to work with the preservation of ecosystems and fauna, environmental education and willingness to learn and help.
Professionals in the fields of biology, zoology, ornithology, environmental sciences or other related areas could assist with more technical functions.
What’s Included?
Accomodation
Available during the length of the project (Either at the project or local homestay families with 2 meals included)
Transfer from Quito to project
Cellphone
Local cell phone is included with a refundable deposit of $50
Aiport pick-up
EcuaExplora staff ready to transport you
Support 24 hours
On the ground EcuaExplora staff available
First weekend accomodation
In a hostal in Quito with breakfast
Orientation
(includes city tour and lunch)
Not Included
Health insurance (REQUIRED)
Meals not specified
Transportation to/from the homestay to the project each day
Optional extras
Add $60 per week for 6 hours Spanish classes if in Quito.
