WILDLIFE RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN ECUADOR
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
GAIN PRACTICAL SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH EXPERIENCE HELPING TO PROTECT THE CLOUD FOREST
This is a fantastic opportunity for budding young biologists to get ahead whilst making a valuable contribution to the furtherment of cloud forest conservation. Travel to the Cloud Forest and gain scientific research experience studying endemic species of flora and fauna.
This organization conducts important research on ecosystems, flora, and fauna of the Cloud Forest. This research is used to implement conservation strategies, to measure the impact of climate change, find solutions, and inform their community educational programs. They are based in La Hesperia Cloud Forest Reserve on the western slope of the Ecuadorian Andes, a site of unique significance to conservation science, where two of the five biodiversity regions of South America converge. Their mission is to devise and promote alternative and innovative models of development in Ecuador, whilst expanding global knowledge of rainforest conservation.
As an intern, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining and developing their ongoing research projects. For instance, they’re running a feline monitoring program where interns are responsible for setting camera traps, retrieving them, then processing and analyzing the data. This is an ideal program for biology students as this data could easily be used towards your own university research. They’re also open to interns proposing their own projects.
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 interns get assigned depends on what’s going on during the time of your internship. 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, interns will have the chance to get involved with any number of the sustainability and permaculture projects happening on the reserve.
Interns will assist with ongoing management of existing research projects. Please note that interns will not exclusively conduct their own research projects. If you wish to do so, you will be considered a Researcher and will be responsible for covering your own expenses, which are the same as what is listed on this internship profile.
Responsibilities
- Setting and retrieving camera traps around the reserve
- Collecting, processing, and analyzing data gathered from camera traps
- Corroborating findings with larger database of wider research
- Maintaining and developing sustainability programs
- Writing reports and helping with grant writing
- Assisting with eco-conservation workshops and community outreach
- Creating visual and written content
- Getting involved with community conservation projects
Requirements
- Must be a student or professional in a field related to environmental conservation, biology, agriculture, or related field
- Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills
- Prior research or data-processing experience is a bonus
- Intermediate level of Spanish is REQUIRED
- Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
- A passion for conservation in a nonprofit context
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay at a dedicated volunteer house with rooms ranging in size from 2 to 6 people, shared bathrooms, and a selection of communal spaces. Excitingly, this volunteer house is located in the heart of the 800 hectare La Hesperia Cloud Forest Reserve.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. As you will be staying on a fairly remote project site, there are no specific safety precautions that need to be taken. When traveling, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and be respectful of the local culture and customs.
Communication
Communication
There is Wi-Fi available on-site the project that is strong enough for WhatsApp and video calls. You can opt to buy a local SIM card, but the network is not very fast in the area.