Bird Habitat Use and Preference Project in South Africa

Location: The Bushveld Biodiversity Research Centre (BBRC), situated 50km from the Botswana border in the Northern part of the Limpopo Province, South Africa.

We are looking for passionate individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to wildlife conservation. This internship is perfect for students, recent graduates, or anyone interested in gaining practical field experience in ornithology and ecology. Join us for the opportunity of a lifetime in South Africa! We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated interns for our Bird Habitat Use and Preference Project. This unique research initiative aims to investigate how different bird species utilize various habitats within our expansive 66,800 acres of continuous reserve. Surrounded by magnificent baobab trees and boasting over 17 different antelope species, the reserve also hosts a diverse range of predators, including Leopard, Cheetah, Caracal, African Wildcat, Brown & Spotted Hyena, and Serval, making it an ideal location for research.

Project Overview:

• Location: A sprawling game reserve home to diverse wildlife, including numerous species of birds.
• Research Focus: Contribute to bird conservation efforts by conducting Bird Point Count Surveys across the game reserve, exploring factors that influence habitat preference. Investigate whether differences in vegetative composition or other environmental factors affect habitat usage by bird species.
• Bird Identification: Assist in expanding the bird species list for the game reserve, helping to document the diversity and number of bird species present on the reserve.

What You’ll Gain

• Exposure to a wide array of bird species and their ecological interactions
• Hands-on experience with diverse research techniques
• Training in bird surveys, habitat analysis, and data collection
• The chance to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts
• Immersion in the breathtaking Bushveld landscape
• Valuable experience in setting up, managing, and determining the best positions for camera traps.

These hands-on experiences are crucial for monitoring wildlife behavior and gathering essential conservation data.

Why This Internship?

• Extraordinary Setting: Work in an awe-inspiring environment, surrounded by the beauty and majesty of giraffes and other wildlife.
• Skill Development: Acquire practical knowledge in wildlife parasitology, conservation strategies, and field research methodologies.
• Professional Growth: Network with leading conservation biologists and expand your career horizons.

Please note that a monthly conservation fee is required, which covers the following:

• Conservation Fees: A portion of your fee will go towards supporting the protection and care of the land and the species that inhabit it.

Comfortable accommodation will be provided during your stay.

• Transportation: Pick-up from and drop-off at the Polokwane airport, weekly or bi-weekly town trips for students to restock supplies, and daily drives around the reserve.

This fee ensures that your experience contributes to both your well-being and the vital work of preserving the reserve.

Duration of Stay

You have the flexibility to choose the length of your stay. We recommend a commitment of 2 to 4 months to fully immerse yourself in the experience and make the most of the opportunities available. This duration allows for deeper engagement with the conservation work and a richer overall experience.

How to Apply

If you are ready to embark on this incredible journey and make a real impact, send your CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in the project to research@bushveldbiodiversity.org.

Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of wildlife research and make a difference in bird conservation! Join us and help us uncover the secrets of bird habitat use and preference.

Contact

Chanelle Becker