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Great 4.46rating (10)
  • Life On Land

Primate Behaviour Internship

location
13 - 13 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Expert-Led Instruction: Benefit from the guidance of Sue Mousley, founder of International Primate Rescue, who brings over three decades of experience working with non-human primates to the program.
  • Hands-On Learning: Gain practical experience in primate handling, health protocols, and daily care tasks under the supervision of experienced professionals.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Explore a wide range of topics essential for understanding primate welfare and conservation, the curriculum covers all aspects of primate management.

Highlights

  • Expert-Led Instruction: Benefit from the guidance of Sue Mousley, founder of International Primate Rescue, who brings over three decades of experience working with non-human primates to the program.
  • Hands-On Learning: Gain practical experience in primate handling, health protocols, and daily care tasks under the supervision of experienced professionals.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Explore a wide range of topics essential for understanding primate welfare and conservation, the curriculum covers all aspects of primate management.
  • Small Intake: With only 10 participants per intake, our internship offers a personalized learning experience with ample opportunities for interaction and individualized attention.
  • Impactful Contribution: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of primates by applying your newfound knowledge and skills to contribute to conservation efforts.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Groups

    About the program

    Internship in Captive Management and Primate Behaviour at International Primate Rescue led by Sue Mousley, founder of IPR with over 30 years of experience.

    Our sanctuary provides a great opportunity for internships, dissertations, work experience, or for those simply interested in studying primate behaviour. With over sixty primates spanning seven different species, including the super smart Capuchins, highly strung Marmosets, and gentle Squirrel ...

    About the program

    Our sanctuary provides a great opportunity for internships, dissertations, work experience, or for those simply interested in studying primate behaviour. With over sixty primates spanning seven different species, including the super smart Capuchins, highly strung Marmosets, and gentle Squirrel Monkeys and Owl Monkeys, you’ll have the chance to learn diverse social structures and behaviour patterns.

    This immersive three-month program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics such as primate handling, health protocols, and behavioural challenges in captivity. Starting back at brain development we will uncover the physical and psychological reasons that hand-reared and captive primates present with behavioural issues, what these issues are and how they can be improved. With a focus on hands-on learning, participants will have the opportunity to observe and assist in daily care tasks, gaining practical skills crucial for a career in primate welfare. 

    Limited to 10 participants per intake, this intimate setting ensures personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. This internship equips individuals with the knowledge and experience needed to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these animals. Your participation in the internship directly contributes to the well-being of the primates under our care. During your time with us, you will get to know our staff and work side by side with them. More importantly, you will get to know our monkeys and all their different personalities. 

    Unearth the root causes of behavioural challenges in captive settings, empowering yourself to contribute meaningfully to primate welfare and conservation. Don’t miss the chance to be at the forefront of primate care and make a lasting impact on the lives of animals. Join us on this extraordinary journey where passion meets purpose.

    Typical day

    Each week, participants will engage in a learning experience consisting of one in-depth lecture, setting the tone for practical training throughout the week. For instance, if the lecture covers self-comforting behaviours, practical sessions will involve observing our primates to identify individuals ...

    Typical day

    Each week, participants will engage in a learning experience consisting of one in-depth lecture, setting the tone for practical training throughout the week. For instance, if the lecture covers self-comforting behaviours, practical sessions will involve observing our primates to identify individuals exhibiting such behaviours and applying acquired knowledge to understand their underlying causes. To grasp the comprehensive care captive animals need, interns will actively participate in tasks typically performed by volunteers, including cleaning enclosures, feeding, and food preparation.
    Work will start at 8 am every morning and finish at 4 pm, with a two-hour lunch break in between.
    You will have weekends off to relax or explore the area.

    Free-time activities

    On the weekends you can organize group trips to places such as Kruger National Park, Horseback Safaris, Lion and Rhino Park, Wonder Caves, Apartheid Museum and many more.

    There is a also small shopping centre within walking distance from the sanctuary with a restaurant and pub, or you can visit ...

    Free-time activities

    On the weekends you can organize group trips to places such as Kruger National Park, Horseback Safaris, Lion and Rhino Park, Wonder Caves, Apartheid Museum and many more.

    There is a also small shopping centre within walking distance from the sanctuary with a restaurant and pub, or you can visit Pretoria and see the city.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The cost of the program includes all learning materials, lectures, any equipment needed and accommodation, but please note that it is self-catering. Don't worry, though! There's a convenient shop just a 20-minute walk from the sanctuary where you can find all the basic food and toiletry items you'll need during your stay. 

    Accommodation

    Our volunteer house offers dorm-style bedrooms with cozy bunk beds. Sheets, duvets, and towels are provided, ensuring your comfort throughout your stay. You'll share one large, fully equipped kitchen with your fellow volunteers, making meal prep a breeze. We do provide fridge/freezers for volunteers to store their food. You'll also have access to a gas stove/oven and a hot shower for your convenience. Need to do some laundry? No problem! There's a washing machine available at the sanctuary to keep your clothes fresh and clean throughout your stay.
    If you have asked us to arrange an airport pick up, an independent taxi service will meet you at Johannesburg airport for an additional fee. The trip to the sanctuary takes about 45 min to an hour. If you arrive during the day,  the taxi service will take you food shopping on the way.
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at O.R. Tambo International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Internet Access

    Sorry, no access at the project site

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    The Internship will take place 3 times a year:

    • 1 January - 31 March
    • 1 May - 31 July
    • 1 September - 30 November

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $123 per week 13 - 13 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    13 - 13 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.5
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2024
    IPR is a wonderful primate rescue centre! The owner is very passionate about all monkeys and always puts their wellbeing as her top ...
    Merel Floor van den Dool

    Short-Term Primate Carer

    •
    2017
    I was a little nervous about travelling alone for the first time, however when I arrived at the airport I was greeted by a lovely man who ...
    Lauren McCall

    Short-Term Primate Carer

    •
    2014
    I was nervous about travelling on my own but didn't need to worry. Between the wonderful staff and long term volunteers, & the family run ...
    Lizzy Unknown

    Short-Term Primate Carer

    Location

    Africa > Southern Africa > South Africa > Pretoria North

    Meet your project coordinator

    Sue
    10
    reviews
    4.46
    Great
    1996
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Primate Conservation in South Africa
    Contact Sue
      Good response rate
    English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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    Price details