Lajuma Research Centre

The Lajuma Research Centre maintains a long-term camera trap grid that provides a valuable platform for studying predator diversity, ecology, and behaviour in the Soutpansberg Mountains. The reserve is home to several carnivore species, including serval, caracal, brown hyena, leopard, honey badger, two genet species, and multiple mongoose species. Research contributes to understanding predator population dynamics, habitat use, and ecological roles within this biodiverse ecosystem. Internship Focus: Interns support the ongoing predator monitoring programme through fieldwork and data analysis. This internship offers experience in camera trap research, species identification, behavioural interpretation, and ecological data management. Activities may include: Monitoring, maintaining, and organising the reserve’s camera trap grid Recording predator tracks, signs, and incidental sightings Analysing photographic data to assess movement patterns,...

The Lajuma Research Centre offers opportunities to study the diverse arachnid species of the Soutpansberg Mountains, shaped by geographic isolation and past climate stability. The mountain offers a variety of habitats from summit grasslands to mist-belt forests. Students will actively search for arachnids in their natural habitats, contributing to long-term ecological research and conservation efforts. Internship Overview Through mostly active searching, interns will search transects across habitats and elevations for spider species. Key Activities: Set up transects Conducting visual encounter surveys and habitat assessments Recording species presence, abundance, and behaviour Assisting with data management and reporting Requirements Open to students, recent graduates, or individuals with interest in arachnids and species identification Comfortable hiking and conducting fieldwork on foot in rugged...