Bird Project - South Africa

We are looking for passionate individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to wildlife conservation. This internship is perfect for students, recent graduates, or anyone interested in gaining practical field experience in ornithology and ecology. Join us for the opportunity of a lifetime in South Africa! We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated interns for our Bird Habitat Use and Preference Project. This unique research initiative aims to investigate how different bird species utilize various habitats within our expansive 66,800 acres / 27000ha of continuous reserve. Surrounded by magnificent baobab trees and boasting over 17 different antelope species, the reserve also hosts a diverse range of predators, including Leopard, Cheetah, Caracal, African Wildcat, Brown & Spotted Hyena, and Serval, making it an ideal location for research. 

Project Overview: 

• Location: A sprawling game reserve home to diverse wildlife, including numerous species of birds
• Research Focus: Contribute to bird conservation efforts by conducting Bird Point Count Surveys across the nature reserve, exploring factors that influence habitat preference. Investigate whether differences in vegetative composition or other environmental factors affect habitat usage by bird species.
• Bird Identification: Assist in expanding the bird species list for the nature reserve, helping to document the diversity and number of bird species present on the reserve.

What You’ll Gain

• Exposure to a wide array of bird species and their ecological interactions
• Hands-on experience with diverse research techniques
• Training in bird surveys, habitat analysis, and data collection
• The chance to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts
• Immersion in the breathtaking Bushveld landscape 

These hands-on experiences are crucial for monitoring wildlife behavior and gathering essential conservation data.
Why This Internship? • Extraordinary Setting: Work in an awe-inspiring environment, surrounded by the beauty and majesty of giraffes and other wildlife. • Skill Development: Acquire practical knowledge in wildlife parasitology, conservation strategies, and field research methodologies. • Professional Growth: Network with leading conservation biologists and expand your career horizons.

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

• Transportation: Including pick-up and drop-off from the Polokwane 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 Weekly or 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 reserve.
Duration of Stay You have the flexibility to choose the length of your stay. We recommend a commitment of 3to 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.

Application Details:

Submit your resume and a brief cover letter to applications@bushveldbiodiversity.org  We eagerly anticipate welcoming motivated and passionate interns to our team!

*Open and welcome to international students*