COSTA RICA / WorkingAbroad Projects
We are in need of volunteers to join projects in both a breeding centre and at Macaw release sites, to help conserve and study these rare species, which were on the verge of extinction.
The breeding centre is located in Alajuela, not too far from the capital city of Costa Rica, San Jose. The breeding centre’s main focus is to breed and raise macaws for release. The Macaws on site are of varying ages including breeding adults, juveniles waiting for release, and chicks. You will be working alongside the team of international professionals and ‘ticos’ (Costa Ricans who work on the project). They will use their specific skills to enrich the lives of the Macaws, and also help and teach you about Macaw care and conservation along the way. There are up to 5 volunteer places available at the breeding centre and a minimum commitment of 2 weeks is required.
Volunteers can also work at one of three release sites; Tiskita, Manzanillo and Punta Islita. All release sites are situated within the tropical jungle, and walking distance to the beach. You will be working with expert biologists in the field to conduct studies of the Macaws in the region. As a volunteer, your studies of the Macaws will be focused in five key areas; Investigating survival rates; Dispersal and adaption to the local area; Social interaction and behaviour; Nesting behaviour and Foraging.
The release site project is suitable for qualified biologists and/or studying students, as well as enthusiastic birders, ornithologists, zoo keepers, or conservation workers. There are only 2 places available per release site and a minimum commitment of 2 months is required.
Volunteers can join for a minimum of 2 weeks, up to 12 weeks, year round. You may also be able to start off at the breeding centre and then transfer to the Release site, if places are available.
The cost for 2 weeks is £365, 3 weeks is £472, 4 weeks is £579, 5 weeks is £687, 6 weeks is £794, 7 weeks is £901 and 8 weeks is £1009. This covers all homestay costs (single and double rooms, three meals per day and laundry), as well as donation to the breeding centre to cover food and care for all of the Macaws, as well as project backup and training.
EXPIRED