WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PROGRAM IN ECUADOR

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

ENHANCE YOUR FIELDWORK SKILLS AND SUPPORT HABITAT RESTORATION IN THE CLOUD FOREST

This extraordinary opportunity invites passionate conservation enthusiasts to elevate their expertise and unite their love for nature with a purposeful cause, making a significant impact on conservation of the Ecuador Cloud Forest. By conducting vital research on the ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate change effects in the forest, this organization shapes conservation strategies and engages in community education initiatives. Nestled in the La Hesperia Cloud Forest Reserve in the Ecuadorian Andes, at the convergence of two pivotal biodiversity regions, their mission is to pioneer innovative development models while advancing global rainforest conservation knowledge. 

While on this program, you’ll be instrumental in expanding and sustaining their research endeavors, including the feline monitoring program, involving setting up camera traps and data analysis. You’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the Cloud Forest’s rich biodiversity, collaborating with experienced researchers and conservationists. Gain practical skills in fieldwork and data collection, and contribute to habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring efforts. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to propose and lead your own research project – a valuable experience for conservation students, empowering you to deepen your understanding of conservation practices and make a meaningful impact on preserving this precious ecosystem.

ORGANIZATION

The Tangaré Foundation works to protect the Cloud Forest and its wildlife through a combination of research, natural resource management, and environmental education. Based in the La Hesperia Cloud Forest Reserve on the western slope of the Ecuadorian Andes, they work to promote alternative, sustainable models of development in the area.

They achieve this by researching and monitoring flora and fauna in the region, using their findings to develop sustainable methods of land use and natural resource management, then teaching these practices to local communities.

Active since 2009, the organization has already made a significant impact. Their research has helped to identify and protect important habitats for threatened species, such as the Ecuadorian white-fronted capuchin monkey and felines such as puma, ocelot and oncilla. They’ve reduced deforestation by promoting sustainable agriculture and forest management practices. Their educational programs have trained over 1,000 in environmental education and conservation. They are a valuable asset to Ecuador and the region, and its work is essential to the future of the planet.

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

This organization runs all kinds of research projects, so the work you get assigned depends on what’s going on when they turn up. At the moment, the organization is conducting long-term research on felines, and capuchins, in the past they have studied amphibians, fungi, and a variety of fauna. As well as this, you’ll have the chance to get involved with any number of the sustainability and permaculture projects happening on the reserve.

WHERE YOU’LL STAY