Overview

Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary is a small sanctuary located in the dry-tropical jungle of Costa Rica, specializing in golden mantled howler monkeys. We rely on our volunteer team to keep the sanctuary running smoothly.

We look for volunteers with a real passion for our project and the work we do, who not only want to help with the daily sanctuary chores but are also motivated to support our mission to prevent the devastating and often fatal wildlife electrocutions on power lines happening daily across Costa Rica, in addition to the increase in dog attacks and vehicle strikes.

We require a minimum commitment of 3 months but ideally are looking for a long-term volunteer to join our permanent team. To ensure candidates are serious about committing to the project we ask for an initial deposit of $400 per month. After a candidate has passed a 3 month probation and has shown sincere intent to stay long-term and become part of our team, this deposit will be refunded, and the candidate will begin to receive a weekly stipend. On-site accommodation is provided.

Volunteer responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Creating and implementing enrichment ideas
• Food preparation
• Cleaning habitats
• Scrubbing soiled blankets
• Observing behavior
• Preparing sleeping areas
• Keeping the sanctuary grounds clean and presentable, including all facilities
• Working on maintenance projects
• Assisting with educational visits

Please note that direct contact with all wildlife is limited. If you are looking for a place to play and cuddle with monkeys, Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary is not the place for you.

We are looking for mature, hardworking, fast learners, preferably 25+ who have experience living away from home. Working with vulnerable and disabled animals can be hard; mentally and physically. Volunteers need to take initiative, be self-motivated, respectful and most of all: flexible. Volunteers will get hot, wet, dirty & tired, but in the end the results of your work will be your reward!

All backgrounds are welcome however we have particular interest in candidates with education or experience in one of the following areas:

• Wildlife rehabilitation
• Conservation
• Fundraising
• Marketing

Some level of Spanish is appreciated, but not required. Fluent English is mandatory.

About Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary

Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary is a sanctuary located in Nosara, Costa Rica, that specializes in lifetime care for wildlife with disabilities and for those that cannot survive in the wild.

The sanctuary’s work not only provides a safe home for those with no hope of a future in the wild, but also takes steps to improve their lives through specialized care focusing on specific disabilities and improving their movement and quality of life.

Physical injury to Costa Rica’s wildlife is most often caused by human encroachment. Deforestation, development and fragmentation of their natural habitat has led to frequent electrocutions on power lines, dog attacks and injury or death due to fast moving motor vehicles.

In order to give the animals that survive but have been handicapped the attention, care and safety they need, our goal is to:

• Construct large habitats encasing natural surroundings, designed to meet the specific needs of handicapped residents
• Incorporate daily physical therapy when required
• Provide visual and auditory stimulation
• Develop and research enrichment activities