Rainforest Conservation Project Peru

This project is based in the Manu National Park, home to some of the last unspoilt rainforests left on earth. It is estimated that only 85% of the world’s original rainforest remains intact.  These environments maintain a great diversity of wild animals, including large macaws, harpy eagle, jaguars, and Giant river otters. In order to protect and preserve the animals and their beautiful surroundings, volunteers are needed to help collect data study and behavioral patterns, with specific emphasis on human impact on the various species. Volunteer Role You will work alongside some of Peru’s leading researchers in the field, who all have many years experience of cutting-edge wildlife conservation techniques. The park is home to various animals and one of the most excellent places to see this diversity is at Clay Licks. These are nutrient-rich outgrowths that develop on the soil, and act as a supplement in the diets of a number of species of animals. Animals literally ‘lick’ the soils to get the necessary minerals they need. Every morning the lick is visited by a number of different macaw species. One of your tasks will be to observe and record number of species, note numbers of individuals per species, animal behaviors and time of visit. Further downstream is the Cocha Camungo Lake, which is used by groups of Giant River Otters. Rails, Herons, Spider Monkeys and the rare Emperor Monkey can also be spotted here. Volunteers are needed to observe and record number of species, the number of individuals per species, behaviors demonstrated and time of appearance. You will also record the animals’ sounds and identify and document new species visiting the lake. Cocha Blanco Lake is situated approximately 45 minutes from your lodge by motorized canoe. It is home to black caiman, leaf-eating hoatzins and a group of giant river otters. You will be performing similar tasks as described above. The Trocha Aguajal trail will take you through a palm swamp forest that is temporarily flooded throughout the year, and is an important nesting site for the Ara nobilis and Ara manilota species of parrot. Here you will be recording their numbers, both with and without tourists around, to study the impact of humans on species numbers.lota species of parrot. Here you will record the numbers, both with and without the presence of tourists, to study the impact of human presence on species numbers. Project Location The project is situated in the Manu National Park area of the Amazon Jungle, based in the Madre de Dios district, South Peru, thought by many to be the most beautiful rainforest in the world. Accommodation & Meals You will stay in shared accommodation at the onsite Blanquillo lodge, which has two dorms, with 26 beds in total. Mosquito nets are provided, and bamboo screens are positioned every two beds for privacy. There are onsite showers and toilets, and volunteers will receive their own towel and soap on arrival. Three meals a day will be provided.     Programme Overview Duration/Prices: 15 days - $3039/€2369, 4 weeks - $4659/€3629 How to book & pay: Secure with $339/€259 deposit. The balance is due 10 wks before departure. What is included? Hotel for first night in Lima Orientation briefing on arrival Internal flights Related transport Full support of research scientists 24/7 emergency support 3 meals per day at Blanquillo Lodge All accommodation Final de-briefing prior to departure What is not included? International Flights Extra activities not on itinerary Programme Summary: This is a unique opportunity to volunteer within one of the few remaining unspoilt rainforest environments left on earth, and have direct involvement in helping to preserve the awe-inspiring wildlife it provides shelter to. Arrival dates: The first Sunday of each month.