This fabulous project was developed to simply save animal lives. Costa Rica has an abundance of indigenous animal life, home to thousands of species of unique and amazing creatures.
Unfortunately animals are vulnerable to the encroaching human world, illegal activity and their natural environments devastated. Animal victims of repossession, loss of habitat and accidents are constantly brought in by local officials and members of the general public from all corners of the country.
Many are able to be nursed back to health, and once fully rehabilitated, are released back into their natural habitat. The groups of animals rescued and cared for are mainly primates, birds, and reptiles, and can include Tapirs, Sloths, Toucans, Spider Monkeys, Green and Scarlet Macaws, Turtles, Snakes, Crocodiles and even a few different species of indigenous felines.
Sadly, none of the Rescue Centres in the program receive any ongoing government funding, relying heavily on donations from the public and the generous contribution of volunteers, both national and international, to keep them operational. This program plays a significant role is helping these important rescue centres continue their wonderful work by supplying a willing volunteer labor force to assist them.
Goals of this Project:
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Work to save the lives of vulnerable animals
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Improve the future prospects of the indigenous animals of Costa Rica
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Research the animals of Costa Rica to learn more about their lives and ultimately, how to protect them
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Create an environment that enables different cultures to work together with the goal of saving animal lives.
Start Dates
This project is available year-round and programs start every SATURDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 12 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
Requirements
Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to give their time and energy to help protect and conserve the native wildlife of Costa Rica. This project is best suited to those who are either pursuing a career in animal conservation/zoological studies, or who simply wish to explore an interest in this field. However, the project is open to all and does not require participants to have specific education, qualifications or experience, as you will be shown everything you need to know by one of local project leaders. Importantly though, all applicants must first and foremost have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
Emergency contact