07 August 2009

Tour of the day: Wildlife conservation expedition on Karongwe Reserve

Country: South Africa
Departures: 2009: 14 Aug, 9 Oct, 13 Nov | 2010: 9 Jan, 13 Feb, 3 Apr, 8 May, 26 Jun, 31 Jul, 2 Oct, 6 Nov
Price: from £1595 (5 weeks) - £2595 (10 weeks) excluding flights.



The amazing things you'll be doing
We run wildlife research expeditions on the Karongwe Game Reserve and Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve, both in the Limpopo province. We have been working in conjunction with local partners since June 2000.
The aim of this research is to determine the impact of reintroduced mammals on game reserves and to develop some of this land into fenceless wilderness areas. The results are shared with the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Reserve, which is funded by UNESCO. South Africa's Game reserves are of key importance to South Africa's natural heritage because they house over 55% of the natural life on the subcontinent.
Following an intensive training week with lectures on topics including animal behaviour and ecology and tuition in the use of telemetry, volunteers will participate in wildlife and vegetation monitoring projects, including assisting with the research on predator/prey interactions, elephant impact surveys, reserve mapping and wild dog breeding programmes. In some circumstances the team might get involved with the exciting work of darting and the fitting of radio tracking collars to lions and leopards.
Expedition Members that participate for 10 weeks will get the opportunity to experience both Karongwe and Venetia; 2 of South Africa’s finest reserves, spending 5 weeks in each location. Both bases have a satellite camp, located in the mountains. The fresh mountain scenery, varied flora and fauna and panoramic views provide a refreshing break from the heat of the bush.
This is a great opportunity to be part of an expedition that really is making a difference to the survival of Africa's natural heritage. You will be working towards a long term conservation strategy amongst staff whoare dedicated to their work. Not only is it a spectacular location for game and scenery but the training and experience of the African bush are second to none.
Leisure activities during your free time: Research is a priority although if time allows side trips can be arranged to various local attractions including; a reptile park, wildlife rehabilitation centres, mountain picnics and white water rafting (dependant on water levels).

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