Overview

Position Description:
For centuries, Belize’s north-east forests supported healthy numbers of Yucatan black howler monkeys. In the 1940’s, however, the population disappeared. Hurricane impacts, disease, and (primarily) hunting pressure were responsible.Though the threats dissipated, the monkeys didn’t return. That is, until recently…

Since June 2011, Wildtracks Primate Rehabilitation Centre has been releasing injured, orphaned, or ex-pet howler monkeys into Belize’s north-east forests, in a highly successful endangered species reintroduction program. Every year, Wildtracks releases troops of rehabilitated Yucatan black howler monkeys into Fireburn Reserve and Shipstern Conservation and Management Area, further contributing to the wild population. To date, Wildtracks has released 58 howlers, and has witnessed the addition of 34 wild born individuals. With a current survival rate of 94%, Wildtracks is the most successful howler monkey release program world-wide.

This is where you come in! Each year we bring in volunteer Post- Release Monitoring Assistants to work with our local primate tracking team monitoring the howlers and collecting data on the releases. Our howlers are released without collars, so all monitoring is visual – meaning the monkeys must be followed through the forest from sunrise to sunset. The days are long and tiring, but the experience is second to none!

Qualifications/Experience:
This is a great opportunity for anyone who is looking for fieldwork experience/ experience in endangered species reintroduction. Tracking the howler monkeys can be somewhat strenuous, so we look for individuals who are physically fit, motivated, and enjoy spending time outdoors in a tropical environment.

Salary/funding:
A financial contribution of US $750 is required for the first month, and US $650 for subsequent months.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Meals and rustic field- base accommodation provided.Transport to and from Wildtracks headquarters and Fireburn fieldbase covered. Air fare, transport to Sarteneja (headquarters), and visa expenses not covered.

Term of Appointment:
Early June through mid- September (30 day minimum)

Application Deadline:
N/A

Comments:
For more information, email volunteer@wildtracksbelize.org and state that you are interested in a post-release monitoring position.

Contact Information:
Alysha McGrattan
La Isla Road
Sarteneja, Corozal PO BOX 278
Belize

Telephone Number:
001 501 650-6578

Website:
https://www.wildtracksbelize.org

E-mail Address:
volunteer@wildtracksbelize.org