Predator Project - Internship in South Africa

Our research centre is excited to offer an exceptional internship opportunity focused on predator conservation and the dietary habits of different predator species, set in a magnificent 27,000-hectare of continuous game reserve that is home to 17 different antelope species and a variety of both small and large predators.

• Camera Trapping: Gain practical hands-on experience in setting up, managing, and optimising camera trap placements for behavioural monitoring and data collection.

• Carnivore Diet Studies: Conduct hair analysis of scat samples to determine predator diet composition.

• Predator Identification Kits: Assist in developing and expanding individual identification (ID) kits to accurately monitor populations of Spotted and Brown Hyenas, Cheetahs, and Leopards on the reserve.

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 hybridisation of subspecies, which endangers their genetic purity. Consequently, conservation efforts must focus on accurately determining their population numbers, distribution, and dietary distinctions.

Internship Duration

The minimum duration is 2 months.

Conservation Fees & Logistics

Please note that a monthly conservation fee applies, which includes:

• Support for ongoing conservation initiatives

• Shared accommodation within the reserve in a fenced research camp

• Transport (Polokwane airport pick-up/drop-off and fortnightly town trips)