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Conservation Internship
Can you imagine holding the future of a critically endangered species in your hands? Macaw Recovery Network is opening applications for its Conservation Internship: 4 months of full immersion at our Breeding Center in Guanacaste, training alongside our technical team to help save the Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus). During these 4 months you'll build hands-on skills in: Veterinary medicine & psittacine management Translocation of individuals Ecology & reproductive biology Behavioral monitoring & data management (ZooMonitor and other tools used by conservation professionals) Pre-release training and environmental enrichment A 100% hands-on experience that gives you real tools to strengthen your professional profile in conservation. We open only 3 groups a year: Group 1: January – April Group 2: May – August Group 3: September – December Maximum 6 spots per group — highly competitive. For students or graduates in Biology, Veterinary Medicine, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Education, or related fields.
Can you imagine holding the future of a critically endangered species in your hands? Macaw Recovery Network is opening applications for its Conservation Internship: 4 months of full immersion at our Breeding Center in Guanacaste, training alongside our technical team to help save the Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus). During these 4 months you'll build hands-on skills in: Veterinary medicine & psittacine management Translocation of individuals Ecology & reproductive biology Behavioral monitoring & data management (ZooMonitor and other tools used by conservation professionals) Pre-release training and environmental enrichment A 100% hands-on experience that gives you real tools to strengthen your professional profile in conservation. We open only 3 groups a year: Group 1: January – April Group 2: May – August Group 3: September – December Maximum 6 spots per group — highly competitive. For students or graduates in Biology, Veterinary Medicine, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Education, or related fields.
Program Highlights
100% hands-on — learn by doing Active participation in veterinary procedures, daily management, and welfare protocols, working alongside the technical team from day one.
Real impact on a critically endangered species Contribute directly to the conservation of the Great Green Macaw through translocation, reproductive monitoring, and pre-release training.
Professional-grade tools and methods Learn to use ZooMonitor and other behavioral monitoring platforms used in real conservation programs worldwide.
Full immersion in ex situ conservation Understand how a breeding center truly works — from biosecurity and daily care to the legal and biological criteria behind every decision.
Community and life in nature Live in Islita, Guanacaste, with housing included and constant technical support, surrounded by a team passionate about conservation.
Quick Details
- Guanacaste, Costa Rica
- 3-6 Months
- Animal Sciences
- Biology
- Ecology
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Studies
- National Park
- Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
- All Nationalities
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Types and Subjects
- Fields
- Animal Sciences
- Biology
- Ecology
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Studies
- National Park
- Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
Availability
Years Offered: Year Round
- 3-6 Months
Age Requirement
18+
Guidelines
All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Couples
Starts At
No Upfront Fees
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- All Program Activity Costs
- Wifi Costs
- Required Equipment
- Guide / Chaperone
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- In-Country Orientation
- Training
- Laundry
- Internship Placement
Program Cost Excludes
- Travel Insurance
- Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
- Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
- Visa Fees
- International SIM Card
- International Airfare
Refund Policy
Other
Accommodation Options
- Group living
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Written Application
- Online Application
- Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa or special permit to join the internship?
Requirements vary depending on your nationality, so we recommend checking with your local Costa Rican consulate before booking flights. Once you're accepted into the program, MRN's Human Resources Manager will send you the official steps to formalize your enrollment, which will include any documentation you need.
What are the living conditions like at the Breeding Center?
Interns stay in shared housing in Islita with basic services included: electricity, drinking water, Wi-Fi, an equipped kitchen, and a laundry area. MRN provides technical support throughout your stay, so you're never on your own if something comes up.
What expenses should I budget for during the internship?
While MRN covers housing and technical support, interns are responsible for international transportation, medical insurance, food, and personal expenses. Exact monthly costs can vary, so we recommend reaching out to us for a more detailed cost estimate based on your home country and travel plans.
What happens once I'm accepted?
Once you're selected, MRN's Human Resources Manager will contact you directly with the next steps to formalize your enrollment and prepare for your arrival in Islita.
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