Samango Monkey Internship in South Africa

The Lajuma Research Centre, in the Soutpansberg Mountains of Limpopo, South Africa, has been a base for wildlife research and conservation for over 20 years. The reserve is home to all five South African primate species, which include the endangered samango monkey (Cercopithecus albogularis schwarzi). This project focuses on understanding their behaviour and ecology while supporting the conservation of the forests and wildlife that share this unique mountain landscape.

Internship Overview

The Samango Monkey Project continues this long-term research by focusing on behavioural and dietary studies. Interns contribute to ongoing data collection that informs both primatology and conservation management.

Key Activities:

• Conducting behavioural observations

• Recording feeding ecology (fruits, leaves, insects, and other food sources)

• Documenting vocalizations, social interactions, and troop movements

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 students, recent graduates, or individuals interested in primatology, animal behaviour, or conservation

• Basic understanding of animal behaviour studies will be advantageous

Duration

A minimum stay 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