Predator Project- Internship in South Africa

Are you an aspiring wildlife conservationist with a passion for different types of predators?

Our research center is excited to offer an exceptional internship opportunity focusing on predator conservation and what different predator diets consist of, on a magnificent 27,000-hectare continuous game reserve with 17 different antelope species and a variety of both small and large predators!

Project Overview:

Location: A sprawling game reserve home to diverse wildlife.

Research Focus: Contribute to important predator conservation and how their diets differ depending on the season, different locations on the reserve and changes of diets depending on the season.

Predator Identification Kits: Assist in building and expanding ID kits to accurately determine the number of Spotted and Brown Hyenas, Cheetahs and Leopards on the reserve.

Opportunities for studying carnivore diets and examining what predator diets consist of. Conduct hair analysis studies using collected scat samples to determine diets.

You'll gain valuable experience in setting up, managing, and determining the best positions for camera traps. This hands-on experience is crucial for monitoring wildlife behavior and gathering essential conservation data.

Conservation Context:

In South Africa, a variety of predators face significant threats, including habitat loss and fragmentation, climate change, potential low genetic diversity, and the hybridization of subspecies, which endangers their genetic purity. Consequently, conservation efforts must focus on accurately determining their population numbers, distribution, and dietary distinctions.

Please note that a monthly conservation and program fee is required, which covers the following:

Transportation: Including pick-up and drop-off from the airport, town trips and daily drives around the reserve

Conservation Fees: As you’ll be staying on a conservation reserve, a portion of your fee will go towards supporting the protection and care of the land and the species that inhabit it.

Housing: Comfortable accommodation will be provided during your stay.

Town Trips: Occur  bi-weekly trips into town for students to restock supplies

This fee ensures that your experience contributes to both your well-being and the vital work of preserving the Game Reserve.

Duration of Stay

You have the flexibility to choose the length of your stay. We recommend a commitment of 2 to 4 months to fully immerse yourself in the experience and make the most of the opportunities available. This duration allows for deeper engagement with the conservation work and a richer overall experience.