For finalists wanting to get some more field experience, Alfredo Attisano from the behavioural ecology unit at the museum and institute of zoology of the Polish academic of sciences is looking for field volunteers to observe the co-evolutionary arms race between fan-tailed gerygone and the shining bronze cuckoo in New Caledonia, for 3-4 months from September to December.
Location: fieldwork will be conducted at several field sites in Grande Terre, New Caledonia. These include lush tropical forests and savannah areas with abundant birdlife. There will be plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and for exploring New Caledonia. Duties: searching for and monitoring nests during the breeding season, behavioural observations, video analysis. Field activities will require 6-8 working hours a day (5-6 days a week) and an early morning start. Experience: experience with monitoring and banding birds, nest searching, mist-netting and fieldwork in tropical environments is highly desirable, but training will be provided. Fieldwork will be physically demanding and conducted in a variety of environments (tropical forest, savannah, dry grassland) sometimes in extreme weather conditions. Physical fitness, enthusiasm, self-motivation, ability to work in a group and shared living are a must. Knowledge of French and driving license are desirable although not necessary. The project will cover travel expenses, accommodation and food costs. For more information visit http://corenc.lagoon.nc.
Mammal society training courses http://www.mammal.org.uk/training/courses/?platform=hootsuite
Posted By : Judith Lock