Wildlife Rehabilitation - Amazonian Ecuador

The Amazon is undoubtedly one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet, home to some of the world's most exotic animals sustaining millions of plant and animal species. Unfortunately, however, it is also a major hotbed of animal trafficking- the illegal trade of wild animals for profit. Animals from the Amazon are often taken from their natural habitats and smuggled primarily to Europe, the United States and Asia for pets, or for their skins and furs. Over 80% of these animals die before they reach their destination, and those who do live generally face lives of deprivation.

This project will place you at a rescue centre for trafficked and abused Amazonian animals, located on 250 acres of rainforest. Animals confiscated by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Environment and the police are brought to the centre where a resident veterinarian gives them their first check-up in the centre's clinic. There are currently 50 animals cared for in the centre including capuchins, tamarin and woolly monkeys; many species of parrots and macaws; kinkajous and small mammals; and sometimes felines.

You will help care for the animals, as well as continue to construct enclosures and trails to improve the centre. You will also help in the rehabilitation and release programs for the animals. If animals are too injured or imprinted release, you will give them a chance to live as naturally and comfortably as possible. If you are passionate about animal rescue and ready to delve into the Amazon this project is for you!

A typical day starts with feeding the animals and cleaning their cages at 7.30 a.m. After breakfast you will work with the centre's staff and other volunteers on maintaining and keeping the park clean, or building new trails and enclosures. The animals get fed again at 3 p.m. But there is also time to explore the land, relax by the river, or swim in nearby waterfalls.

The centre places importance on outreach, education, and research, and plans on implementing local educational programs as well as welcoming international students and researchers. This is a flexible project and your interests and abilities will definitely be welcome.

Occasionally the centre looks for a volunteer coordinator to help manage the construction and day-to-day work of the refuge. Whichever aspect of the project you get involved with, this is an unbeatable chance to make a difference in an up-and-coming refuge in the heart of the Amazon.

You will be given easy to follow instructions to get from Quito International airport to the project HQ. Alternatively airport pickup can be arranged at an extra cost.

You will live at the reserve, which is a 15-minute taxi ride from the nearest town. Our 6-sided jungle lodge consists of a large dorm-style room housing up to 8 volunteers. There is also a large deck area where volunteers usually eat their meals, relax in hammocks, or strike up a game of cards. Our bathroom facilities are next to the volunteer house, and consist of composting toilets and our famously hot showers.

We provide linen and blankets but if you are prone to chilliness we recommend bringing a sleeping bag for extra comfort. We also provide candles but a flashlight is always handy for the dark jungle nights.

* Min age 18 - Max age 80

* Minimum 4 weeks commitment - 25+ hours a week.

* Enthusiasm and interest to work in wildlife rehabilitation

* Conversational English or Spanish

* Full travel & medical insurance

* Necessary vaccinations 

* Necessary flights & visas 

Fee:

 $120 USD Project Fee for the first 2 weeks ($100 for each week after / $80 per week for long term interns) + £149 GBP Placement Fee (£100 discount)
 

What's Included:

Project Fee includes all food, accommodation, 24 hour support, orientation and integration into the project.

We charge a flat, one-off Placement Fee of £149 GBP (usually £249) per person per project. This covers our costs for promoting the project and providing our services. We offer full pre-departure support (for all necessary flights, visas and vaccinations) and ongoing assistance throughout your placement.
 

What's not included:

Flights, insurance, airport pickup, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these sorted.