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Costa Rica: Fauna Conservation

costa rica scarlet macaw conservation volunteering, costa rica green macaw conservation volunteering.Project Summary

 

This is a project dedicated to the conservation of macaws native to Costa Rica. The focus is principally on two species (Scarlet macaw: Ara Macao and the Green macaw: Ara Ambigua) both of these beautiful birds are currently in great danger of extinction. Also, both used to fly freely in many areas of Costa Rica, but due to the logging of Almendro (Dipteryx panamensis) trees and the stealing of macaw chicks for the pet trade, species' numbers have dropped drastically.  The macaws are also hunted to provide household food as well as to sell the feathers as decorations. At present, there are estimated to be less than 40 breeding pairs of green macaws in Costa Rica.

 

Volunteer work:

 

Work  includes tasks such as crop planting/harvesting in the organic garden, tending the planted trees, and animal husbandry.

      •    Production of organic food for the birds.
      •    Planting and tending of trees which will sustain the natural lifestyle and diet of the macaws. E.g. palms, mangos, almonds, etc.
      •    Upgrading the enclosures for the breeding birds.
      •    Reforestation, in order to create biological corridors for the birds.  
      •    Construction of improved breeding enclosures; and
      •    Information gathering on macaw husbandry techniques.

Also the volunteer will prepare the organic garden, helping to cultivate plant species upon which the macaws rely.

 

Location:

 

The project is located 2 hours away from San Jose by bus.

 

 

Accommodation and Food

You will be living at the shelter. Accommodation is  basic but comfortable. You will live communally in a large wooden cabin, equipped with bunk beds and basic furniture. Typical Costa Rican dishes should be expected (rice, beans, vegetables, fruits.). If you are vegetarian need to advise in advance to inform the cook. Each day the volunteer will help with the serving and washing up.

Travel Arrangements and Transportation

 

Booking air travel to your destination is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you as needed. For domestic traveling and specific logistics RJI will provide the respective information at the time.

 

Dates, Duration and Application Deadline


      •    This project is offer throughout the year.  
      •    Individual or group volunteer (minimum 6).
      •    Duration: 1 to 4 weeks.  
      •    Age 18+

 

 

General Requirements

 

Spanish is desired but not mandatory. The most important requirement its to bring a positive attitude, be willing to get involved in our Central America culture. You must love the outdoors and not mind working in any weather, be easy going and be able to work alongside the local community. Much of your time will be spent with the local families.  Be ready to enjoy this experience... Welcome!

Program Costs

Included

Not included

Lodging / 3 meals per day

Airfare

Transportation to host community

In country transportation

Pre-departure and arrival Orientation

Phone cards

24 Emergency Staff

Internet

 

Meals during orientation

 

Medical/Accident Insurance