Seabird Rehabilitation Internship with SANCCOB (Cape Town)

Program Overview

Seize this exceptional opportunity to contribute to seabird conservation while gaining invaluable experience and skills with SANCCOB in Cape Town! This program, lasting either 3 or 6 months, provides an immersive experience in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of critically endangered African penguin. Interns will acquire practical skills while making significant contributions to SANCCOB’s mission of reversing the decline in seabird populations.

Responsibilities
Catching, handling, feeding, hydrating, and administering medication to various seabird species
Maintaining high standards of cleanliness within the rehabilitation center
Overseeing the intensive care unit, bird pens, and collaborating with other volunteers
Keeping accurate records for each individual bird

Skills Developed:
Practical techniques for seabird rehabilitation
Knowledge of hygiene protocols and their implementation
Skills in administering medication and providing nutritional support
Assessing seabird health and determining readiness for release
Teamwork and leadership abilities through volunteer supervision

Ready to dive deeper into this program?

Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.

See program details

Program Highlights

Enhance your CV with unique seabird rehabilitation experience.

Build connections with professionals in conservation and animal care.

Develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Develop teamwork and leadership skills through supervising volunteers.

Work with Critically endangered African Penguins

What's Included

Some Program Activity Costs

Guide / Chaperone

On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Training

Certificate of Completion

Quick Details

Location

Cape Town, South Africa

Starts AtContact Provider for Cost Details

Availability

Year(s) Offered:Year Round

Intern Duration:

Short Term
3-6 Months

Age Requirement18+

Types & Subjects

Fields:

Animal Sciences
Biology
Environmental Studies
Sustainable Development
Zoology & Wildlife Sciences

GuidelinesAll Nationalities

Inquire about this program

Updated May 6, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

Cape Town, South Africa

Available Terms / Availability

Years Offered
Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Solo

Education Levels & Language

Language
English
Education
University Junior (3rd Year)
University Senior (4th Year)
Bachelor’s degree
University Sophomore (2nd Year)

Application Procedures

Online Application
Other
Letters of Reference
Phone/Video Interview

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

Short Term
3-6 Months

Starts At

Contact Provider for Cost Details

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about SANCCOB

Be the first to review SANCCOB

If you've participated in this program, your review helps future students decide.

Review this Program

Inquire

Inquire about this program

Have a question? Send us a message and the program team will get back to you.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about SANCCOB.

What is a SANCCOB intern?

Our interns become an extension of our permanent staff. They receive a structured training plan with a mentor and monthly mentor meeting take place to discuss training and skill set. Interns are trained to a higher level, such as working in the seabird nursery, rehabilitation pens, intensive care unit, and our chick rearing unit.

What are the working hours as an Intern?

Working hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with breaks during the day. Some days or months may require flexibility, especially during busy periods. The willingness to go the extra mile is always appreciated.