Predator Project in South Africa

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, activity cycles, and species interactions

• Annotating previous and current camera trap images on TrapTagger

• Documenting ecological and environmental factors associated with predator behaviour

• Assisting with data organisation and contributing to research summaries

Fieldwork Requirements:

All fieldwork is carried out on foot, often over uneven terrain and in variable weather. Students should be comfortable living remotely, hiking, and have a basic level of fitness.

Eligibility:

• Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, recent graduates, or individuals with an interest in wildlife ecology

• Experience with camera trap techniques is advantageous but not required

Duration:

A minimum of 8 weeks is recommended.

Conservation Fee:

A conservation fee is required, which directly supports conservation and research efforts and includes:

• Shared accommodation

• Pick-up and drop-off from/to Louis Trichardt

• Fortnightly town trips for supplies