This project is looking for Field Assistants (FAs) for the 2012 nesting season of the critically endangered Leatherback turtle. The work includes leading night patrols on the beach to identify, measure and tag adult turtles, relocating nests, monitoring hatcheries, and releasing hatchlings. Applicants should be advanced student or recent graduate in biology or some related field. Previous field experience an advantage but not essential. FAs are needed from 26 February to 30 June 2012 in Costa Rica, and 1 March to 15 July 2012 in Panama. FAs will be chosen by the end of November 2011.
FAs at the Costa Rican site are required to do a personal research project of their choice. There are 6 kms of beach and 2000 acres of forest from which to choose a subject. Projects in 2012 include: monitoring of Agami Heron nesting season; census of three species of monkey in the reserve; medicinal plants; organic vegetable garden; working with children at local school. FAs can do these projects individually or share with another FA, depending on the extent of the subject.
FAs receive free food and lodging throughout their stay at the project sites.
This project is posted on the Latin Lounge rather than on the main VLA website.
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