Seabird Nursery Internship

Program Overview

The African Penguin’s population is on the brink of collapse. Urgent conservation efforts are needed to prevent this species from becoming extinct in the wild by 2035.

SANCCOB Cape Town is offering a unique 3-to-6-month voluntary- based Seabird Nursery Internship. This dynamic, mentored program provides the opportunity to develop both hard and soft skills, with a special focus on caring for larger African Penguin chicks usually weighing more than 1.3kg.

Depending on the season, you might also work with other fascinating species, such as Cape Gannets different cormorant species and young shoreline waders.

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Program Highlights

Train to handle and feed the critically endangered African Penguin chicks (over 1.3kg)

See chicks progress from tiny, fragile hatchlings to stronger, more independent fledglings is incredibly rewarding and gives a real sense of achievement.

Gain practical skills in chick handling, feeding techniques, hygiene protocols, and understanding seabird behavior—knowledge that’s hard to get elsewhere.

Be surrounded by like-minded staff, interns, and volunteers who are all dedicated to animal welfare and conservation, creating a strong sense of purpose and teamwork.

Contribute to the broader goal of protecting endangered and vulnerable seabird populations, especially species like the critically endangered African Penguin.

What's Included

Some Program Activity Costs

On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

In-Country Orientation

Training

Quick Details

Location

Cape Town, South Africa

Starts AtContact Provider for Cost Details

Availability

Year(s) Offered:Year Round

Duration:

3-6 Months

Age Requirement18+

Types & Subjects

Causes:

Animal Welfare
Conservation
Environment
Wildlife

GuidelinesAll Nationalities

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Updated May 7, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

Cape Town, South Africa

Types & Subjects

Causes
Animal Welfare
Conservation
Environment
Wildlife

Available Terms / Availability

Years Offered
Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

All Nationalities

Education Levels & Language

Language
English
Education
University Freshman (1st Year)
University Sophomore (2nd Year)
University Junior (3rd Year)
University Senior (4th Year)
University 5th Year or More
High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
Some college credit, no degree
Associate degree
Bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
Professional degree
Doctorate degree

Application Procedures

Written Application
Phone/Video Interview
Online Application

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

3-6 Months

Starts At

Contact Provider for Cost Details

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about SANCCOB.

What is the difference between volunteering and an internship?

Volunteers are here for a shorter period than interns and do not receive a mentor or training plan. There is a structured training schedule that ensures our volunteers receive training in the support areas as well as in our rehabilitation pens with the seabirds.

Interns receive a structured training plan with a mentor allowing them to become an extension of staff as they take on more responsibility than volunteers.

Are these costs involved if wanting to volunteer/do an internship?

Yes, there are costs involved to cover training, resources, and operational expenses. Specific costs will be communicated during the application process and depend on the duration of your stay.