Volunteer: Wildlife Rehabilitation In Guatemala

Location: Flores, Guatemala
Duration: from 1 week
Cost: $575 for the 1st week, $175 for each week thereafter
Start Dates: this project is ongoing and you can join at any time.
Benefits

• Keywords: wildlife rehabilitation, biology, zoology, dissertation research, projects
• Work alongside scientists and biologists treating and rehabilitating many different species
• Flexible placement, tailored according to your interests and abilities

Animal lovers, conservationists and scientific researchers alike are invited to this special sanctuary in the remote northern region of Guatemala. The centre is situated on 45 hectares of forested land in the Mayan Biosphere Reserve, and is home to a number of species including Parrots, Macaws, Spider and Howler monkeys, Margays, Ocelots, Coatimundis, Taras and Kinkajous.
Nearly all of these animals have been seized from smugglers and are very young, needing constant care and attention. As you help these animals rehabilitate back into the wild you will get very close to some of the most unique species on the planet. In addition to feeding and caring for the animals there are opportunities for research at the centre, ensuring that your time at the Centre is tailored to your personal and career goals.
Daily Life
Much of the work that takes place at the Rescue Centre is in the maintenance and pre-rehabilitation areas; although in special cases they will help in the quarantine, clinic and rehabilitation cages. For long term volunteers or with advanced knowledge in animal care, there may be opportunities to feed baby birds like Parrots, woodpeckers, toucans and many other species.
When an animal requires it and the staff indicates it, some species like baby howler monkeys, baby anteaters and baby carnivores may need more attention, closer care and even hand feeding. This is where some long term volunteers can be taken in consideration for this responsibility.
The rescue center is equipped with a fully functional veterinary clinic where recently received animals receive immediate attention, special diets and treatments.
These Activities Include
In addition to the regular daily feeding and care of the animals, we usually have special on-going activities in which you can participate.

• Gathering of wild foods for the animals.
• Enrichment of cages and enclosures by adding toys, perches and other stimuli that help the animal in their rehabilitation process.
• Construction of cages or extra buildings.
• Depending on your experience and skills, you may also be asked to help in veterinary medical treatment and surgeries as well as in the periodic blood and feces samples we must take to monitor the health of the animals.
• Giving tours and creating educational exhibits at Kinkajou Kingdom.
• Participating in additional environmental education activities and community projects