Seabirds and Light Pollution - a problem with a solution
Sociedade Portuguesa para o Estudo das Aves
Funchal - Madeira, Portugal
Description
The work is developed on Madeira Island and involves a wide range of tasks, both office-based and in the field. The main focus of this activity is the monitoring of seabirds, but other tasks will also be part of the volunteer's daily routine. Seabird monitoring: Prospecting new breeding areas, monitoring seabirds using vocalization recordings, tracking the breeding season of seabirds (ringing, tracking methods)nand assisting in the creation of technical documents. Raising awareness among entities about light pollution issues, advocating for good lighting practices, and promoting the project. Seabird rescue campaigns: Assisting in the preparation and organization of seabird rescue campaigns, participating in these campaigns, and supporting the recruitment and sensitization of volunteers. Supporting insect cataloging: Photographing and organizing insect samples. These activities are part of the LIFE Natura@night project, coordinated by SPEA Madeira (www.naturaatnight.spea.pt).
Accommodation, food and transport arrangements
The ESC programme covers travel expenses, the amount to be paid depending on the calculated distance using the ESC distance calculator. This covers travel expenses between the volunteer's place of residence and the accommodation location at the beginning of the volunteering period, as well as the return trip after the end of the volunteering. Transport, accommodation, and food expenses are covered by the ESC project, up to a maximum of €21 per day of volunteering. The volunteer will also receive 5€ of pocket money per day for personal expenses. Transport to fieldwork is provided by SPEA.
Training during the activity
The training will be continuous and varied throughout the volunteering period. The volunteer will have the opportunity to be involved in the a LIFE project in Conservation Biology. They can enhance their knowledge of seabirds, methodologies for monitoring seabird colonies, and creating technical documents. Besides technical skills, the volunteer will also gain competencies in engaging with communities, raising awareness, environmental education, and insect cataloging. Additionally, it's expected that the volunteer develops the ability to work both independently and in a team.
Participant profile
Background in Biology, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, or a related field. Proficiency in Portuguese is preferred (for community engagement). Age between 18 and 30 years (inclusive) at the beginning of the activity. Flexibility in work schedules, aptitude for fieldwork in challenging areas, capability to prepare preliminary reports. Good communication, adaptability in the work environment, motivation and a willingness to learn are essential qualities.
Activity dates
From 15/02/2024 to 14/02/2025
Activity location
Rua da Mouraria nº9 4ºB, Funchal - Madeira, Portugal
Activity type
Individual volunteering
Looking for participants from
Belgium, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain
Activity topics
Environment and natural protection
Deadline for applications
Application deadline: 15/01/2024 23:59