Wildlife and Conservation Internship in the Masai Mara, Kenya

Job description

Volunteer in Kenya and get the opportunity to work directly with members from the Masai Mara community to develop and implement solutions to reduce conflict between the people living on the land and the wildlife in the area. As a volunteer you will be working to preserve the culture, the land and the vast array of species living together within the region. As land for both the people and the wildlife becomes constricted by urbanisation it becomes more and more important to find a strategy for coexistence. Part of this project is involved with setting up a conservation area which gives the Masai a reason to help in preservation efforts by bringing much needed tourism investment directly to their community.

As a part of this, there is a great need for the consistent and accurate collection of data on the conservation area, including regular censuses of the wild animal population. Under the guidance of the experienced conservation team, you will assist in the regular collection of this data.

The core aims of the project is to monitor the lion population and movements of the prides within the conservation area, monitor the interaction between the lions and villages and educate and create awareness within the community on the importance and value of lions.

The surrounding area is also one of the most important refuges for the Mara elephants. Another central feature of the project is to build a community of people sharing their knowledge about the elephants of the Masai Mara ecosystem and working together to monitor and protect them.

As a volunteer, you will be trained in consistent and accurate collection of data in the Naibosho Conservation area, including regular censuses of the wild animal population here. Volunteers will also assist with data collection during the Great Migration which occurs throughout the months of July-October.

Volunteers will be part of a team monitoring the lion population and movements of the prides within the area, the interactions between the lions and villages and helping map game drive routes.

You will also get involved with researching and monitoring elephant populations in the area. Your responsibilities will include: taking ID photos of elephants, getting to know them individually, and collecting observations on the location, size, and composition of elephant groups on Naboisho and surrounding areas. Through your work you will help to build up knowledge of the Mara elephants and contribute to their conservation.

Desired profile

Both qualified and non-qualified volunteers can join this project. Any specific qualifications or experience in the field of education, environmental sciences or conservation work will determine your level and area of involvement at the different placements. Volunteers with no specific skills will work across all areas and receive training in the work required.