Bird Study in the Pampas Argentina
Description
We are looking for one volunteer to assist in our upcoming project in the Pampas Grasslands, Argentina. This research will focus on breeding ecology of grassland birds (target species included: pipits, sparrows, grassland finches, meadowlarks) in cattle-grazed grasslands, and testing the efficiency of predator enclosures to improve nest success of different types of nests.
Volunteer tasks include:
- Conducting behavioral surveys to map breeding territories
- Searching and monitoring bird nests on a two-day basis
- Deploying predator enclosures and miniature cameras
- Keeping track of monitoring data and develop a schedule.
(Previous experience in the tasks is desired, but not exclusive).
The team will live in a field camp inside a private farm. Facilities include running water, electricity, and unreliable internet connectivity (at the camp only).
To apply, please send cover letter and CV (with two references) to Dr. Martín Colombo (macolombo@ilpla.edu.ar).
Details
Organisation:
Universidad Nacional de La Plata
Location:
Punta Indio, Buenos Aires
Qualifications/Skills:
Required skills: patience and perseverance for watching elusive birds for long periods with low chances of success; good observational skills and good judgment of bird behaviour; good physical condition to jump over fences and walk up to 15 km a day in uneven (usually wet) terrain; good visual navigation in an open flat environment; ease using GPS units; fluent English or Spanish speaking; being comfortable working individually and with others; will to cook for the team is a plus +.
Dates of program:
1 November to 6 December 2023
Duration of program:
5 weeks
Application deadline:
7th August 2023
Age requirement:
Adults of both sexes 18+
Cost:
The position is free. Volunteers must provide their own transportation to La Plata city (Argentina). The project will provide transportation to the field site and cover costs of food inside the camp. Bringing own tent and sleeping bag is desirable.
Other information:
Please don't hesitate to ask for any doubts via e-mail.
Reviews
Incredible experience! Highly recommend!"I assisted Martin with his PhD project from November 2018 to December 2018. Overall, I had a wonderful experience and I would definitely recommend this volunteering trip to anyone that is looking for some adventures in the Pampa. I had the chance to carry out daily surveying activities such as hatchling monitoring, nest searching, measuring the egg's dimensions and quantifying the vegetation cover. The study site is exceptional! You will have the opportunity to observe many incredible birds, insects and mammals! The landowner is incredibly nice and hospitable. She offered me twice to join her for a horse ballad across the Pampa! It was truly amazing! The food was really nice considering we did not have access to a fridge! Martin is such a great chap. We got on really well and we shared many funny moments both during the fieldwork and in the camp. Martin was going back to visit his family and celebrate his brother's birthday but instead of leaving me alone in the camp for a couple of days, he invited me. His family treated me like theirs. The only thing I regret is that I didn't have the chance to visit more of Argentina after the work with Martin as I had to go back to France for XMAS. So if you can, make sure to plan a trip after! P.S: Bring a comfortable air mattress and earplugs!"- Alexandre Hodges
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