Description

Working in a National Park on the beautiful Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Volunteers will conduct night-time turtle patrols with a GVI Leader along the tropical beach in Tortuguero National Park. Volunteers will look for nesting turtles and count tracks. If turtles are found during the patrol volunteers may assist in measuring the turtle, counting the eggs being laid, look for previous tags and distinctive markings and record the data. Volunteers may also be lucky enough to see and record the juvenile turtles emerging from the nest and record data on hatchling success. Opportunities exist on weekends for rainforest tours, canopy tours, visiting idyllic beaches and white water rafting. Volunteers receive continuous hands-on training on all aspects of the research and college credit may be available, please consult GVI's college credit page for helpful tips and advice.

What difference does this project make?

The conservation program in Costa Rica has had direct short-term results, including decreasing poaching rates on endangered marine turtles and their nests, and increasing knowledge of the turtle populations of a remote part of one of the most important nesting beaches in the world for Green Turtles. The data goes to national and international networks, is presented at international conferences, and used in species and area management. The information is also correlated to data recorded by other GVI teams regarding jaguar predation of turtles in Tortuguero National Park.

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 endangered species
* Watching turtles nest on a remote beach as they have been doing for millions of years
* Joining the research team to undertake turtle nesting surveys and monitor nesting sites
* Patrolling beaches at night and 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 to build upon throughout your stay. Subjects covered include turtle ecology, key species identification, research techniques and health and safety.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

USD 1,395 for 2 weeks

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training

Program Fees Include:

* Airport pick up and hotel drop off
* Transportation to and from site
* Accommodation
* 3 meals a day
* Orientation and training upon arrival
* Pre-departure support and discounted services
* 24 hour emergency phone
* 24 hour in country support

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18-65 years

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory
• Group living

Participants Travel

in Groups

Typically Participants Work

in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 weeks

GVI'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