DIARIO NATURA ANIMAL

Agency: McMaster University

Job Description: VOLUNTEER FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANTS NEEDED for research on alarm calling and breeding biology of the SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani), a joint-nesting species in the cuckoo family. This affords a valuable opportunity to learn field biology skills. Two to three field assistants are needed to work in Southwestern Puerto Rico for approximately three months between mid-September 2012 and late-December or early-January 2013. Dates are flexible, but a three month minimum commitment is required.

Successful applicants must provide their own airfare to San Juan, P.R. Travel within Puerto Rico, food and basic shared accommodations will be provided.


DUTIES: Sighting colour-banded birds, locating nests, mist netting and trapping birds for sampling, checking nests, setting up video recording equipment, and data entry. Participation in bio-acoustic experiments will involve performing and documenting audio playback to groups of birds in the field. Assistants will be required to work early mornings and long days outside in sun and heat and must be available seven days per week, although there will usually be some regular time off. Days off may be coordinated among the field team and some opportunity for recreational travel in Puerto Rico will be scheduled, time and data collection permitting.

Qualifications: Previous field experience, particularly with birds, is an asset but not required. Good physical health, a love of the outdoors and (dry) tropical environments, attention to detail, readiness to learn, problem solving skills and self-motivation are valuable assets.

To apply: Cover letter, resume, contact info, and a minimum of two references, if possible, who can attest to your qualifications to LEANNE GRIEVES at McMaster University.

Last Date to apply: May 30, 2012
Contact: LEANNE GRIEVES
E-mail: lagrieves@gmail.com

Agency: USFWS Hopper Mountain NWRC

Location: Southern CA: Ventura, Santa Barbara, Kern, San Lou

Job Description: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) California Condor Recovery Program is now accepting applications for our volunteer internship program. This is 4-6 month commitment during which time volunteer interns will receive a living allowance of $35 per day of work while working on and around one of two wildlife refuges central to condor activity in Southern CA.

This USFWS volunteer opportunity focuses on the management of the free flying population of California Condors in Southern California. Selected applicants will track this population throughout its range using radio telemetry and by ground-truthing GPS transmitter data. Volunteers will observe condor behavior at feeding sites, roosts and nests. Often times, these observations make use of observational protocols and a predefined ethogram. Those selected will also be involved in the operation and establishment of supplemental feeding sites which are used to monitor and trap condors. They will also assist in the handling of condors.

Field work requires: the ability to work independently or as a team; work and sometimes camp in remote areas during inclement weather or harsh environmental conditions; travel via ATV, 4WD vehicle, or by foot in steep mountainous terrain; carry 50lb carcasses to feeding sites; keep detailed field notes; follow data collection protocols for the collection and entry of accurate and consistent data; and assist in routine office work.

The California Condor Recovery Program is one of the longest standing endangered species recovery programs in the world. The program has relied on a variety of governmental and non governmental partnerships to successfully bring this species back from the brink of extinction to the road of recovery. Interns will have the opportunity to meet and work with many of these program partners throughout their 4 to 6 month full-time commitment. The standard work schedule consists of ten consecutive days of work, and four consecutive days off in a two week period. Lodging is provided on refuge in a remote location during the work shift. Lodging is not provided during days off. No pets allowed.

SEEKING TO FILL TWO POSITIONS TO START MID APRIL. send cover letter, resume, three professional references, and period of availability to the listed email. Complete applications will be considered as they are received.

Qualifications: valid drivers license; bachelors degree (or pursuing) in wildlife management, natural resources, or related field. Preferable: experience in remote field locations; 4WD vehicle experience; ability to drive standard transmission; ATV driving experience.

Candidates must able to: work as a member of a team; work in extreme weather conditions in remote areas; live in a communal setting, occasionally camp; use radio telemetry to locate and track radio-tagged condors; lift 50 lb carcasses into vehicles and hike them out into remote areas; construct and maintain trails, maintain condor release/holding facilities and other structures; assist in the handling of condors; operate 4WD vehicles and ATV's; keep accurate records; follow data collection protocols.

Salary: $35 per work day
Last Date to apply: April 16, 2012
Website: http://www.fws.gov/hoppermountain/
Contact: Geoff Grisdale
E-mail: geoffrey_grisdale@fws.gov(Preferred)
Phone: 805-451-0084

PROYECTO: Ecología y conservación de primates en los bosques del Magdalena Medio en Colombia.

La Fundación Proyecto Primates está realizando un estudio de la comunidad de primates en varias localidades del Magdalena Medio Colombiano con el fin de entender como afecta la pérdida de hábitat y la fragmentación a las diferentes especies de primates. En especial se está haciendo énfasis en estudiar aspectos básicos de la ecología y comportamiento de Ateles hybridus, una especie críticamente amenazada con la extinción.

El principal objetivo de este estudio es el de comparar las estrategias ecológicas y sociales de los primates en ecosistemas intervenidos por el hombre para comparar los resultados con otros estudios en lugares menos intervenidos que venimos realizando en Colombia y Ecuador. Los resultados de estos trabajos servirán como base científica para diseñar proyectos y estrategias de conservación para los primates del Magdalena Medio y los ecosistemas en donde aun habitan.

Estamos buscando personas con conocimientos básicos en biología, ecología y/o conservación, y con un gran interés en aportar con su trabajo al proyecto de conservación de monos araña café y primates en Colombia. En especial estamos interesados en trabajar con estudiantes de últimos semestres de la carrera que quieran hacer su tesis en primatología, o jovenes investigadores que quieran ganar experiencia en investigación en este campo.

Las condiciones de trabajo de campo son físicamente exigentes y el terreno de las dos áreas de estudio es difícil. En particular, San Juan tiene una gran abundancia de mosquitos (todo al año) y algunas zonas se inundan en la estación de lluvias. Por otro lado Quinchas tiene un terreno muy escarpado. El trabajo de campo es además duro y esperamos trabajar con personas que estén dispuestas a trabajar 5 a seis días a la semana con largas jornadas (de 5:30 a 18:30) siguiendo los primates. Por lo tanto los interesados deben estar en buenas condiciones físicas y mentales. El trabajo que hacemos es exigente y creemos que solo puede ser llevado a cabo por personas con mucho interés y mucha motivación por este tipo de trabajo. Es una gran oportunidad para realizar un trabajo con varios de los primates mas amenazados de Colombia y del mundo. Durante este periodo habrán alrededor de 5 estudiantes trabajando con la misma comunidad de primates en preguntas de investigación asociadas a nuestro proyecto de conservación.

Los asistentes de campo estarán involucrados en diversas actividades que llevamos a cabo, entre ellas:
● Seguimientos de los grupos de primates que estudiamos y colectar datos
● Recorridos dos veces al mes de transectos fenológicos que nos permiten estudiar la oferta de frutos en el bosque
● Colección de muestras fecales para estudios de dispersión, genéticos y hormonales.
● Mapear y marcar los senderos del área de estudio
● Colección de muestras de vegetación de las plantas de las que se alimentan los primates.
● Pasar y organizar los datos colectados en las bases de datos del proyecto.
● Colaborar en los programas de educación ambiental que llevamos a cabo con comunidad local

Los asistentes de campo deben comprometerse a trabajar en este proyecto por un mínimo de 4 meses ya que el aprendizaje de los métodos, el area de estudio y los grupos de estudio toma tiempo.

El proyecto tiene fondos para cubrir los costos asociados con el alojamiento y la alimentacion durante el periodo de estudio. Ademas podemos cubrir los gastos de transporte de ida y regreso al área de estudio. Contamos con equipos y materiales necesarios para este trabajo. El proyecto NO cuenta en el momento con salarios para asistentes.

Posiciones ofrecidas:

- 3 estudiantes/voluntarios para empezar inmediatamente por un periodo de al menos 4 meses.

Esta convocatoria se vence tan pronto se llenen la posiciones aquí ofrecidas. Esta convocatoria está dirigida a estudiantes que quieran realizar su trabajo de grado y a jóvenes profesionales que quieran ganar experiencia en este tipo de trabajo.

Interesados enviar los siguientes documentos (via email):
- Hoja de vida
- Carta de Intención
- Una referencia profesional y/o académica que podrá ser contactada

Contactar a:
Andrés Link a.link74@uniandes.edu.co
Gabriela de Luna gabrieladeluna@proyectoprimates.org

Agency: US Fish and Wildlife Service, Innoko National Wildlife Refuge
Location: McGrath, Alaska
Job Description: Summer Internship Opportunity
Innoko National Wildlife Refuge
McGrath, Alaska

Innoko National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is looking for 6 volunteers to work as Biological Science Technicians during this (2012) summer field season. Volunteers will get a chance to work on projects including; moose browse abundance surveys, land cover map validation, intensive vegetation sampling in meadow-like habitats, and small mammal live trapping. You will also be provided valuable wildlife management / remote field safety training including; general aviation safety, aviation water ditching, motor boat operator certification, bear safety / awareness, using less-lethal deterrents for bears, and firearms training (note, not everyone will be required to carry a firearm, but everyone receives the training to be safer around firearms). First Aid/CPR training will be provided for those who do not have a current certification.

Those selected for these positions must be in Anchorage, Alaska by Sunday, May 13. Please expect these positions to end in late August or early September. For those whose schedule allows and are interested in assisting with computer data entry, camp close-up, etc. we may be able to extend this opportunity through September.

Each volunteer will be financially responsible for travel to Anchorage, Alaska and back to their point of origin. Innoko NWR will cover travel costs from Anchorage to McGrath and from McGrath back to Anchorage. Once in Anchorage, the refuge will provide a financial allowance for food and lodging. Volunteers will be required to stay in Anchorage for a few days to complete some of the aviation related safety training. Once in McGrath, all food and lodging will be provided. Volunteers can expect to stay in McGrath for a couple of weeks before departing for the refuge Field Camp. Once at Field Camp, all food, lodging and virtually all the field gear needed (right down to the hip boots and sleeping bag) will be provided. Field Camp is our year-round base of operations while on the refuge. There are cabins for sleeping, a combined sleeping/office/lab cabin, maintenance cabins, and a kitchen cabin.

Innoko NWR is headquartered in the small remote community of McGrath, Alaska. McGrath is accessible only by air, has a population of approximately 320 residents, and is located approximately 240 miles NNW of Anchorage, Alaska. The refuge is situated approximately 60 miles NW of McGrath and is accessible only by air. The refuge is very remote and isolated even by Alaska standards. This 3.85 million acre refuge has no communities, no roads, no trails, no air strips, no cell phone service, and no internet service within its boundary. (Imagine an area larger than Connecticut with no one living there, no roads, and no roads leading to the boundary.) Communication with the headquarters in McGrath is by 2-way radio and satellite phone. Due to the complexities in scheduling resupply flights, coordination among other projects, and space issues, please do not expect to be able to travel between the refuge and McGrath during the summer. Once you are on the refuge, plan on spending the rest of the summer there. Of course, emergency situations happen, and every effort is made to accommodate those situations.

Travel to the refuge is by float plane while most travel on the refuge is by open power boat (18-24 ). If travel by small plane or open boats is a concern, this is not the place for you. Both black bears and brown bears occur throughout the refuge. Also of concern are female moose in early summer with newborn calves. While there have only been three incidents in the 30 year history of the refuge requiring a bear be killed, applicants must be willing to use a firearm in order to protect their life or the lives of others in their crew. If this is a personal moral problem, then working on an Alaskan refuge is not for you.

Initial time spent at Field Camp is devoted to getting the camp up and running, assisting with servicing outboard motors, launching boats into the Innoko River, assembling camping gear, etc. During this time we will also be learning/practicing GPS navigation, practicing driving boats safely on the Innoko River, learning identification and classification of boreal habitats, learning how to record habitat data on pocket computers, and digital camera documentation standards. Crews will likely head down the Innoko River for a 4-6 week effort of classifying habitats and conducting an assessment of moose browse conditions. This work will be conducted from remote spike camps that will need to be relocated from time to time.

Following the habitat classification work, crews will return to Field Camp for a short break and to learn protocols for the next sampling efforts. One crew will conduct intensive vegetation transects (both point sampling and Daubenmier plots) in meadow-like habitats. Training will be provided in the sampling protocols as well as use of plant keys, plant presses, vegetation identification, and data entry standards. A second crew will conduct small mammal live trapping at 2 different locations. Training will be provided for all protocols of trap site set-up and setting traps; small mammal identification, handling, marking; study skin preparation; and data entry standards. Crews will likely be based out of remote spike camps for about 4 weeks. Due to the trapping protocol, those participating in the small mammal trapping project must be willing to work 10-11 consecutive days. All of the habitat classification / moose browse and intensive vegetation sampling work will be conducted during a normal 5-day work week.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wildlife Refuge System is America's only network of federal lands dedicated specifically to wildlife conservation. Alaskan refuges offer the opportunity to work in virtually unspoiled ecosystems. Innoko National Wildlife Refuge is the only refuge with parts of the Iditarod National Historic Trail running through it; and relics of the Gold Rush are still evident today if one looks closely.

Innoko NWR is located in what is known as Interior Alaska. The refuge has over 22,000 lakes and more than 7,100 miles of rivers, creeks, and sloughs running through it; the Yukon River forms the western boundary of the refuge. Innoko NWR was specifically created for the conservation of waterfowl, black bear, moose, and furbearers, as well as other species. Interior Alaska is also home to an extremely healthy mosquito population. Innoko NWR is situated in a large river basin surrounded by low (generally less than 1,000 ft), rolling hills. Lowland areas are dominated by wetland, muskeg, and black spruce bog habitats. Upland areas are dominated by spruce forests, deciduous forests, and mixed spruce-deciduous forests. Tundra areas are intermixed throughout the refuge. There are no clear-water streams on the refuge, however, the fishing for northern pike and whitefish (shee fish) can be world class. In addition, bird watching, photography and wildlife viewing opportunities abound.

Applicants must be willing to live and work in very remote and primitive camping conditions and be physically fit to walk through marshes, boreal forests, and tundra environments - all of which have poor footing. These positions are for the adventurous who want to be away from modern conveniences for the summer and have a strong desire to assist the refuge by conducting these biological research projects.

Please email a resume with references and contact information to: Christian_Eggleston@fws.gov by 10:00 a.m. AKST on March 19, 2012. For questions please contact Chris Eggleston, Deputy Refuge Manager at (907) 524-2023 or Toll Free 1-888-601-7970.

Qualifications:
Salary: Volunteer
Last Date to apply: March 19, 2012
Contact: Chris Eggleston
E-mail: Christian_Eggleston@fws.gov
Phone: 907-524-2023

Hiring Organization:Pacific Primate Sanctuary

Position Description:
This is truly a Sanctuary, a beautiful place for the right person. Responsibilities of an animal caretaker involve: providing daily care, enrichment, and nurturing to +/- 70 monkeys, administering medications, preparing food, cleaning enclosures, colony management, and maintaining the Sanctuary facility. Office assistance would include: record-keeping, data entry (Mac- Filemaker Pro, Excel, Word), preparing reports, and presenting literature reviews. After the initial training period, managerial duties would be added and more technical training will be available. Interns are given the opportunity to become primary animal caregivers. The position would require an average of 40 hours per week, including on call scheduling.

Qualifications/Experience:
We would welcome someone with a background in animal husbandry and an interest in animal welfare and conservation, who is a mature team player with respect for others. We need a good, clear communicator (written and spoken English) and coordinator. with a minimal personal agenda, who seeks mutual growth for all and is able to make a long term commitment to the primates and the staff. The position requires a self-starter, someone who is humble, compassionate, self-reliant, organized, professional, computer literate, open to learning, capable of problem solving and completing a task. Our resident Intern would need to be physically fit, with no communicable diseases or criminal record, who has a driver's license and would enjoy a rural lifestyle with simple amenities. A one year commitment to the Sanctuary is requested. Foreign citizens would need to secure their Visa and permits independently.

Salary/funding:
This is a volunteer position, although some paid work outside of the Sanctuary may be available weekly. Pacific Primate Sanctuary is a nonprofit organization (501(C)(3). Our staff is made up of 15 volunteer caretakers and a support system of veterinary and other professionals. Since the well-being of the monkeys is our primary focus, they are not on exhibit, the facility is not open to the public and they are not subjected to any medical research. As a result, our organization is not eligible for funding from any governmental agencies nor do we receive funds from admission, as would a public zoo. Therefore, we must rely solely upon donations from compassionate individuals and organizations. Our operating budget is extremely small. Financial independence for personal expenses (i.e. travel and medical needs) is required of our Interns. If you are considering the possibility of seeking grant support, supplementary funds for needs other than housing could be built into your budget.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
We provide a fully furnished and equipped 24-foot Yurt or a 16-foot Yurt (a traditional round structure designed specifically for tropical living) and utilities. You would room with one of our current Interns who would be your primary instructor. Although we do not supply regular meals, many fruit trees and a site for growing vegetables are available.

The Yurt is adjacent to the Sanctuary on a large piece of rainforest property. Interns are trained by experienced members of our staff in all aspects of New World primate care (Callitrichidae, Cebus and Ateles). Observational research could be conducted on this colony of Marmosets,Tamarins, Capuchin, and Spider Monkeys in a naturalistic environment. Please visit our website for additional information.

Term of Appointment:
One Year Requested

Application Deadline:
Position Available in June 2012 and On-Going

Requeriments:
Letter of Intent in making application, Resume/CV, three Letters of Reference (from instructors, employers etc.), a copy of your TB clearance and general physical.

Contact Information:
Lucy L. Wormser, President
Pacific Primate Sanctuary, Inc.,
Haiku, HI 96708
USA

Telephone Number:
808-572-8089

Fax Number:
808-572-8089

Website:
http://WWW.PACIFICPRIMATE.ORG

E-mail Address:
pps@aloha.net

Agency: Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory
Job Description: Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory (RMBO) is seeking experienced field biologists to conduct point counts throughout the Kiowa, Rita Blanca, and Cimarron National Grasslands and the National Park Service Southern Plains Inventory and Monitoring Network. Surveys are located in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

The position will run from April 23, 2012 through June 30, 2012. Technicians will attend a mandatory, paid training workshop prior to beginning field work. Upon successful completion of training, the technician will work independently conducting bird surveys. Field work covers a wide range of habitats; including shortgrass and mixed-grass prairie, riparian, pinyon-juniper, and eastern woodland-mixed-grass prairie. The standard work schedule will be ten days on/four days off. Technicians must be able to identify all bird species within the study area by sight and sound upon completion of training, and should expect to hike off-trail sometimes in rugged terrain or under difficult conditions. Primitive camping, often without phone service or facilities, will be required in some areas. In addition to salary we cover mileage for project related driving, and up to $400 a month in camping and lodging reimbursement.

Qualifications: Applicants should be enthusiastic, physically fit, enjoy travel and expect to work long hours in the field. Applicants must enjoy working independently with multiple days of solitude. A valid driver's license, proof of auto insurance, binoculars, camping gear, a strong work ethic and enthusiasm are required. Desired qualifications include experience conducting bird surveys, especially point counts, with the ability to identify western and some eastern bird species by sight and sound, experience with camping and long distance hiking.

To apply please e-mail a cover letter including dates of availability and a resume with at least three references to Ross Lock.
Salary: $1,800-$2,500/month
Last Date to apply: March 31, 2012
Website: http://www.rmbo.org
Contact: Ross Lock
E-mail: ross.lock@rmbo.org
Phone: 970-482-1707

Agency: Broadreach
Job Description: Marine biology and natural science courses focus on hands-on study in the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Fiji, British Columbia, South Africa, Chile, Panama, Nicaragua, Costa Rica or Belize. The courses combine classroom learning, practical application of skills, labs and field survey techniques, along with cultural activities, service learning and adventure activities. In addition to teaching, instructors live with students and facilitate positive group dynamics, personal growth, adventure activities and leadership development.

Qualifications: Master's or PhD in a related field of study required.

Experience teaching marine science at the high school or college level.

Ability to teach college level marine science courses, including hands-on academics, labs and field survey techniques.

International travel and trip leading experience preferred.

Experience with the activities included on the program preferred. Activities may include snorkeling, hiking, sea kayaking and SCUBA diving.

Salary: based on experience $1600-$2800
Last Date to apply: August 3, 2012
Website: http://www.gobroadreach.com
Contact: Sara
E-mail: staffinquiry@gobroadreach.com(Preferred)
Phone: 919-256-8200

Agency: SEE Turtles
Job Description: SEE Turtles is a non-profit conservation tourism project that partners with sea turtle conservation organizations to promote responsible turtle watching. The project is part of Ocean Revolution, sponsored by The Ocean Foundation. For those who can brave long walks, late night shifts, insects, and occasional downpours, working with sea turtles can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Volunteering on a sea turtle nesting beach is not a vacation; it is an opportunity to make a difference, participate in scientific research, and meet new people. Sea turtle conservation volunteering is hard work but the benefits include new experiences, lots of good exercise, learning a new language, and a good addition to a growing resume.

At most sea turtle projects, the work involves participating in nightly beach patrols, looking for nesting sea turtles and helping researchers collect data. SEE Turtles can connect you for free with an international sea turtle conservation project. We work with volunteer projects in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico.

Research Assistant positions are also available for those with some biology background or relevant experience. RA positions require a longer time commitment, usually 2 months or more. Once at the project site, housing and food are provided for RA's at no expense. If interested please check the Research Assistant box on the Volunteer Matching Form.

To complete an online Volunteer Matching form go to:
http://www.seeturtles.org/688/sea-turtle-volunteer-matching.html

Qualifications:

- Reasonable physical condition
- Ability to tolerate basic living conditions and food
- To be able to pay a small amount for expenses and registration
- A good attitude and open mind
- Provide your own travel to the site
- To dedicate at least a week to the work

Salary: volunteer
Last Date to apply: December 31, 2012
Website: http://www.seeturtles.org/688/sea-turtle-volunteer
E-mail: info@seeturtles.org

Field assistant on bonobo communication, DR Congo

Hiring Organization:
Max-Planck Institute for Ornithology

Position Description:
We are looking for a volunteer field assistant for a project on
communicative development of bonobos in the wild. The field site
LuiKotal is located in a remote forest area in the southern sector of
Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo. The task will be
the collection of focal video data and scan data of bonobo
mother-infant-interactions. This involves long-distance walking in
difficult terrain under very warm and humid climatic conditions.

Qualifications/Experience:
The position requires above average physical fitness, a high degree of
discipline, self-motivation and responsibility, high stress resistance,
and language skills in French and English. Candidates with experience in
field research in Africa and/or behavioral data collection will be
preferred.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Accommodation and living expenses at the camp (lodging in tents, food)
as well as at the flight from Kinshasa to the camp and back will be
covered by the project.The international flight to and from Kinshasa and
expenses for staying in Kinshasa will not be covered.

Term of Appointment:
July 2012 – End of December 2012 (6 months)

Application Deadline:
Applications will be considered as they are received. They should include a CV and a short letter of motivation.

Contact Information:
Paul Kuchenbuch
Eberhard-Gwinner-Str.
Seewiesen, none 82319
Germany

Telephone Number:
+49 8157 932 - 242

Website:
http://www.orn.mpg.de

E-mail Address:
pkuchenbuch@orn.mpg.de

Field assistant in Iguazu, Argentina

Hiring Organization:
German Primate Center

Position Description:
We are looking for highly motivated volunteer field assistants for a project on the behavioral ecology of tufted capuchin monkeys in Iguazú National Park, Argentina. The current projects focus on aspects of mating and anti-predator behavior and vocalizations given in these contexts. The field season will last from mid-April to the end of August 2012. Assistants will be trained to recognize at least all adult individuals in the study groups, collect behavioral data via different sampling methods (e.g., focal, scan and ad libitum sampling), and make audio recordings of vocalizations. Other responsibilities will include assistance in conducting field experiments (using vocalization playbacks, controlled provisioning, and predator models), collecting fecal samples for genetic and hormone analysis, and data entry. An initial training in field hormone extraction, genetic sample storage, and acoustic analysis will be provided as well. All those participating in the project will share some “household” responsibilities, including cooking, food shopping, and keeping shared spaces tidy. The assistants will work approximately 25 days per month, spending at least 8 hours per day in the forest and an additional two hours or so per day in the lab entering data into spreadsheets.

This experience can be considered as an internship for your own future research. If you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in primate behavior and ecology, this will be an ideal experience. We strongly encourage assistants to develop and conduct an independent research project (e.g., for a thesis) as long as data collection and observation protocols do not interfere with other responsibilities.

Qualifications/Experience:
Although not strictly required, assistants with BS/BA in Biology, Ecology, Animal Behavior, Physical Anthropology, Primatology, or a related field are preferred. Previous experience in field work with animals, traveling in foreign countries, and an ability to speak basic Spanish are also advantageous. Assistants will need to be prepared to live in close quarters with other participants of the project and with other researchers staying at the field station. Being cooperative, responsible, and hard-working are essential. Experience with collecting behavioral data is preferred, and a keen interest in primate behavioral ecology is a must. In addition, applicants must be in good physical and mental condition, be very patient, and be self-reliant when alone in the forest.

Time in the field can be quite uncomfortable, and you will be expected to work rain or shine. This portion of the project will be conducted during the Argentine winter, when days are sometimes quite cold and rainy, but hot and humid days can also be expected. Mosquitoes are often very intense, and you may regularly encounter such dangers as bees and wasps, venomous snakes, and big cats. In addition, yellow fever, dengue fever, and leishmaniasis are all risks in the research area.

Salary/funding:
The position does not pay a salary.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
All food costs and local transportation while working on the project will be covered. The assistant will have to cover his/her own field station fees, which currently run approximately $210 USD/month, although we are expecting an increase in the rates to be implemented soon by the park service. The assistant will be responsible for all travel to and from the field site. Contingent upon the availability of funds AND completion of the entire field season, a portion of the costs incurred while working on the project may be reimbursed, although this cannot be guaranteed at this time. All equipment needed to work on the project will be provided. Assistants will be required to have their own health insurance and should have all vaccinations up to date.

Term of Appointment:
About mid-April or early May until September 1, 2012.

Application Deadline:
March 15, 2012

Comments:
If interested, please email a cover letter indicating your previous experience and reason for applying, a CV, and the names and contact information for two academic references to the email address below, with the subject line “tufted capuchins”. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions.

Contact Information:
Barbara Tiddi and Brandon Wheeler
Kellnerweg 4
Goettingen, none 37077
Germany

Website:
http://www.cog-ethol.de/en/people_2.php?PID=184

E-mail Address:
batiddi@gmail.com

Title: Bird Banding & Bird Survey Volunteers - Las Tangaras, Mindo, Ecuador
Location: Mindo, Ecuador
Job Description: Ecuador Cloud Forest Bird Banding at Reserva las Tangaras, Mindo, Ecuador

July 15-28, 2012. Volunteers assist Dr. Dusti Becker with long-term avian monitoring and conservation in the Andes of western Ecuador. Dr. Becker, a well-known tropical avian field ecologist with over 15 years of experience in Ecuador, leads the field project with assistance from experienced Ecuadorian para-biologists.

Life Net field assistants help with mist-netting of birds at several banding stations located in the Las Tangaras Reserve to advance scientific understanding of cloud forest avian communities, including species tolerances for deforestation and forest fragmentation.


Reserva Las Tangaras boasts more than 25 species of hummingbirds, one of the largest regional cock-of-the-rock display leks, and great numbers of Choco and Andean endemic bird species.

Volunteers help set up and monitor mist nets, extract birds from nets, carry birds from nets to a banding station, and record basic ecological data. Training in handling, measuring and banding is also offered to those interested in developing that skill set. Students may also develop there own project for credit at their universities. Volunteers will also have some afternoons and a full day free to explore and/or bird the Mindo area.

Accommodation is in the loft of the research cabin - mattresses and mosquito nets provided.

The cost-share donation of $1500 covers expenses related to supporting a volunteer: transportation in Ecuador, meals, & lodging during the conservation research program. The donation also contributes to stewardship of the reserve, salaries for Ecuadorian staff, and local educational programs about cloud forest wildlife conducted throughout the year.

The expedition begins and ends in Quito with the team meeting at Posada del Maple on the morning of July 15th, 2012, at 9 am.
Qualifications: Keen interest in birds, birding, mist-netting, banding. Experience desirable, but we will train. Academic background and interest in ornithology and avian conservation is desirable. Skilled use of binoculars is desirable.

Experience with mist-netting is desirable, but not required. Students, recent graduates and others looking for hands-on training and resume building experience will benefit greatly from this project. Visit the Volunteer page of www.lifenetnature.org for more details. To apply complete the application form on the web page and e-mail a brief cover letter and resume to Dr. Dusti Becker, dbecker@lifenetnature.org.

Salary: None
Last Date to apply: June 30, 2012
Website: http://www.lifenetnature.org
Contact: Dr. Dusti Becker
E-mail: dbecker@lifenetnature.org(Preferred)
Phone: 520-384-3886

Title: Ecology Research Assistants needed in Mexican Dry Forests
Location: Alamos, Mexico
Job Description: The Biodiversity Group is seeking research assistants to join its field team in Mexico's tropical dry forests to study the conservation ecology of native reptiles and amphibians and other wildlife. Some species of interest include the Mexican beaded lizard, mountain king snake, desert tortoise, spotted box turtle, Madrean black-tailed rattlesnake, barking frog, and the Mexican leaf frog. Expeditions travel to the Alamos region in Sonora Mexico to conduct research in a rare and wild tropical deciduous forest ecosystem.

The work that research participants will be involved with will primarily consist of conducting night and day surveys for reptiles and amphibians (however other taxa such as invertebrates are also of interest), animal data collection, and lab work. Lab work consists of more detailed information such as scale counts (for reptiles) and other morphological information, animal measurements, screening for chytrid disease (amphibians), preservation (only when necessary), and acquisition of DNA samples.

Diagnostic photographs of all animals will be taken. Other tasks include animal handling and general note taking and data organization.
For 2012, TBG has two Mexico expeditions scheduled for September 1-12 and September 14-25. The cost for one tour is a donation of $1000, but participants are encouraged to stay for two tours at a cost of $1900. Volunteer participants will gain valuable research experience, contribute towards our mission in conservation ecology, and have an opportunity to conduct research in a safe environment and hands-on with animals in the field. For more information please go to the following link:

Students:
Students usually can acquire academic credit (often towards senior research/thesis) or apply for an internship with TBG along with their current college or university.

Apply:
Please APPLY at www.biodiversitygroup.org
Please email expeditions@biodiversitygroup.org with any questions

Opportunities for research expeditions in Ecuador are also available, please see website for further information.
Qualifications: Participants must have a general interest in conservation ecology and field work and must be over the age of 18 to apply. Assistants will be required to work long hours over rugged terrain. Specifically, the most important qualifications that an assistant can bring to the project are enthusiasm and a good work ethic. Anyone meeting these general criteria is encouraged to apply.

Last Date to apply: August 1, 2012
Website: http://www.BiodiversityGroup.org
Contact: Nathalie Aall
E-mail: expeditions@biodiversitygroup.org(Preferred)

Title: North American Regional Specialist- International Environmental Nonprofit
Location: Kelowna BC Canada
Job Description: Island Conservation Canada, a project of Tides Canada Initiatives (TCI), is a science-driven project dedicated to preventing extinctions and protecting natural ecological and evolutionary processes on islands. The project integrates and applies research, priority-setting, education, capacity-building, conservation action, monitoring, and evaluation.

Island Conservation Canada works closely with Island Conservation in Santa Cruz, California. Island Conservation is an international non-profit with offices in the USA, Chile, Ecuador, Australia, Canada and the Bahamas. The mission of Island Conservation is to prevent extinctions by removing invasive species from islands.

This position will report to the North American Regional Director of Island Conservation Canada, providing support for Island Conservation Canada's program throughout North America and its territories. The North American Regional Director and the Regional Specialist are based in Kelowna, British Columbia. Additionally, this position, in support of the North American Regional Program goals, will work with TCI and Island Conservation staff in California, Washington DC, South America, the Caribbean and Southwest Pacific.

The Regional Specialist will assist the Regional Director in managing the North America Regional Program including integrated planning, fundraising, communications, projects, and meeting logistics with different agencies of the United States and Canadian governments in addition to other NGOs, First Nations communities, private corporations, vendors, foundations and donors.

Anticipated Start Date: March 1, 2012

Location: Kelowna, BC, Canada

Salary: To be determined, depending on experience

Key Responsibility Areas:
Assist the Regional Director in development and implementation of the Regional plan for North America.

Work in close consultation with the Regional Director to conduct necessary research and identification of key groups, organizations, government agencies and individuals necessary to the regional program

Identify and understand processes for securing private foundation and government source funding from Canadian and US entities and work in close collaboration with TCI to maintain contact and administrative processes for all outreach activities and project reporting requirements

Assist in the preparation and submission of funding requests, grant reports and other donor materials

Interact with other Conservation NGOs and agencies to establish appropriate relationships and meetings

Assist the Regional Director with the logistics of regional program activities such as coordinating key multiparty meetings and travel, organizing VIP and donor trips, group visits into the region and/or office by partner organizations

Prepare background and communication materials (handouts, powerpoint presentations, etc) for partner meetings and outreach. Ensure that materials meet the guidelines of Island Conservation Canada's communications policies.

Oversee the management of the Kelowna office with respect to communications, IT, utilities, equipment and supplies

Provide support to the Regional Director in the preparation of expense reports and other administrative tasks, as necessary

Qualifications: Qualifications Required

Bachelor's Degree

Strong knowledge of Outlook, Word, Power-Point, Excel and other programs in a PC based office

General experience and skills:
Experience in wildlife conservation program, project management and administration

Experience with grant writing, report writing, fundraising, communications and administration is preferred

Excellent organizational skills, ability to work independently and the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines

Highly motivated, enjoys challenges and has the ability to solve problems with limited supervision

Excellent interpersonal communication skills

Excellent written and spoken English. French and Spanish language skills highly desirable

Ability to improve systems, simplify processes and provide superior products

Multitasker, all-terrain attitude toward a wide range of tasks

Ability to perform efficiently under pressure

Vehicle and Motorized Equipment Experience:
Valid driver's license and passport.

How to Apply:
Together with your resume, please forward a cover letter which includes your responses to the following questions:

1. How did you hear about this position?

2. What interests you most about this position?

3. Based on our requirements, why are you a strong candidate?

4. Briefly tell us about your current/most recent job. Why are you looking for a change?

Please send your resume and cover letter with your responses to the above questions to jobs@islandconservation.org. Please type ICC Regional Specialist in subject field. No phone calls please.

For more information about Island Conservation Canada and Tides Canada Initiatives, please visit:

http://tidescanada.org/support/island-conservation-canada-icc/

Island Conservation Canada is a Project of Tides Canada Initiatives Society (TCI),
the selected candidate will be an employee of TCI.

We will accept applications until the position is filled. No recruiters please.
Last Date to apply: March 6, 2012
Website: http://tidescanada.org/support/island-conservation-canada-icc/
Contact: Human Resources
E-mail: jobs@islandconservation.org(Preferred)

Title: LIfe Net Avian Conservation Volunteer
Location: Ecuador, Andes - west slope
Job Description: Ecuador Choco Forest Bird Survey - Mashpi Reserve - June 27 to July 10, 2012.

Life Net's Dr. Dusti Becker and Ecuadorian biologist, Carlos Morochz, seek 6-8 volunteer research assistants to inventory birds in a new protected area - the Mashpi Reserve. Located deep in Ecuador's western Choco, Mashpi covers more than 17,000 hectares spanning elevations from 500 to 1300 m. Mashpi's amazing primary forest supports leks of Long-watttled Umbrella birds and numerous Choco endemic birds, and help is needed to complete survey work!

Volunteers stay in comfortable apartments with modern facilities (hot water showers, flush toilets, electricity) and are served wholesome home-style Ecuadorian meals in what will soon be one of Ecuador's most exciting rain forest ecotourism destinations on the slopes of the western Andes. The team's goal is to develop a bird list for the reserve and to determine the general conservation value of the reserve in terms of avian diversity. Volunteers assist with mist-netting and trail surveys at various elevations in the new reserve, document hummingbird diversity at feeders, and maximize field time spent documenting locations of rare and exciting birds and wildlife. This is a unique way to contribute to conservation and visit a reserve that will be exclusive to visit in the future.

A donation to Life Net of $1500 covers room, board, and transportation during the project within Ecuador and contributes to sustaining the project during the volunteer program. Airfare is not included. The team meets in Quito on the morning of June 27th, 2012. More information is available at the Life Net website - www.lifenetnature.org. For volunteers looking for a more extended experience in Ecuador, this project can be combined with the Amazon or Las Tangaras avian conservation projects.

To apply: E-mail a Life Net application form (available on volunteer page of www.lifenetnature.org) with short cover e-mail describing your skills and assets to Dr. Dusti Becker. Resume (optional).
Qualifications: Experience with mist-netting, banding, birding, bird counting, behavioral observations desirable, but training is provided. A strong interest in avian conservation and excellent health are sufficient.

Salary: None

Last Date to apply: May 23, 2012
Website: http://www.lifenetnature.org
Contact: Dr. Dusti Becker
E-mail: dbecker@lifenetnature.org(Preferred)
Phone: 520-384-3886

Disponibles plazas de Practicas-voluntariado en el CRAS Madrid-Viñuelas (Centro de Recuperación de Animales Silvestres de la Comunidad de Madrid situado en Tres Cantos, Ctra Soto de Viñuelas s/n). El Centro es uno de los mayores de España y funciona como Centro de recuperación de Fauna autóctona y como Centro de recepción y acogida de Animales Exóticos y Mascotas no convencionales (incautaciones, decomisos, animales de particulares de todo tipo salvo perros y gatos). El compromiso normal es de un mes de lunes a viernes de 9 a 18 horas (con una hora para comer). Si en algún mes quedan plazas vacantes se podrán completar con otros voluntarios que por motivos justificados no puedan cumplir con el horario mencionado.

Se realizarán las tareas habituales del Centro: Dar de comer, limpieza y montaje de instalaciones, enfermería, apoyo a cirugías, necropsias. Interesados comunicarse con pablo_prietom@yahoo.es

Pablo Prieto.
Veterinario Coordinador CRAS Madrid