Small Mammal Species Diversity Monitoring - South Africa

Environmental Career Center; Limpopo; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A wildlife conservation organization based in South Africa is seeking dedicated interns for an internship focused on monitoring small mammal species diversity. Interns will capture small mammals, record ecological data, ensure ethical handling, and assist in habitat assessments. A commitment of 2 to 4 months is recommended. This opportunity is ideal for those interested in wildlife ecology or related fields. No prior experience is necessary but a strong work ethic and enthusiasm for research are essential.

Benefits

Shared accommodation within the reserve

Transport services for airport pick-up/drop-off

Support for ongoing conservation efforts

Qualifications

• Dedicated interns interested in wildlife ecology, zoology, conservation biology, or related fields.
• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for research are essential.

Responsibilities

• Setting and checking live traps to safely capture small mammals.
• Recording species data including identification, measurements, and other key ecological information.
• Ensuring ethical handling of all animals, following a strict catch-and-release approach.
• Assisting in habitat assessments to understand species distribution influenced by environmental factors.
• Contributing to a larger conservation initiative.

Job description

Are you passionate about field research, biodiversity conservation, and hands‑on scientific work? The Bushveld Biodiversity Research Centre (BBRC) is offering an exciting internship opportunity focused on small mammal species diversity monitoring within a diverse private game reserve in South Africa.

About the Internship

This project is an opportunity to contribute to a significant research effort studying the diversity, abundance, and distribution of small mammal species. Interns will play a crucial role in identifying and monitoring various species, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Setting and checking live traps to safely capture small mammals
• Recording species data including identification, measurements, and other key ecological information
• Ensuring ethical handling of all animals, following a strict catch‑and‑release approach
• Assisting in habitat assessments to understand how vegetation and environmental factors influence species distribution
• Contributing to a larger conservation initiative, as this project is essential for understanding the biodiversity of the reserve

Why This Project Matter

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BBRC is based in a 27,000‑hectare private game reserve that is home to over 17 antelope species and a wide variety of predators and other wildlife. Small mammals play a critical role in the ecosystem, and this project will help us fill important gaps in knowledge about their populations, behaviors, and ecological importance.

Who Should Apply?

We are looking for dedicated interns with an interest in wildlife ecology, zoology, conservation biology, or related fields. No prior experience is required, but a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for research are essential.

Duration of Stay

We recommend a commitment of 2 to 4 months to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Conservation Fees & Logistics

A monthly conservation fee is required, covering:

• Support for ongoing conservation efforts in the reserve
• Shared accommodation within the reserve
• Transport services: Pick-up from and drop‑off at the Polokwane airport | Town trips every fortnight for supplies