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Outstanding 4.96rating (223)

Wildlife Research (Bears/Wolfs)

location
4 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Observe wolves, bears, and lynx in their natural habitats and study their behavior.
  • Assist in habitat restoration and management efforts for endangered species.
  • Conduct wetland surveys focusing on species diversity and population dynamics.

Highlights

  • Observe wolves, bears, and lynx in their natural habitats and study their behavior.
  • Assist in habitat restoration and management efforts for endangered species.
  • Conduct wetland surveys focusing on species diversity and population dynamics.
  • Engage in public awareness campaigns to promote wildlife conservation.
  • Gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry and conservation fieldwork.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups

    About the program

    Conduct wildlife research in Greece, focusing on wolves, bears, lynx, and wetlands. Gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry, behavior studies, and habitat management

    This is an in-country hands-on program with provided shared housing and local team support.

    Join the mission to conserve Greece’s majestic wildlife and ecosystems by interning with Arcturos, a leading environmental organization dedicated to protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable ...

    About the program

    This is an in-country hands-on program with provided shared housing and local team support.

    Join the mission to conserve Greece’s majestic wildlife and ecosystems by interning with Arcturos, a leading environmental organization dedicated to protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable coexistence with nature.

    The Wildlife Research Internship in Greece offers an extraordinary opportunity for students and enthusiasts to contribute to cutting-edge research and conservation projects. Based at the renowned Arcturos Environmental Center, participants work alongside experts to support the conservation of large carnivores, such as brown bears and wolves, and the preservation of mountainous ecosystems in Greece and the Balkans.

    Program Highlights

    This internship is ideal for students in environmental science, biology, veterinary studies, or related fields, as well as anyone passionate about wildlife conservation. Key program features include:

    • Wildlife Research: Participate in studies on animal behavior, population dynamics, habitat use, and species diversity.
    • Conservation Projects: Contribute to initiatives that promote the coexistence of humans and wildlife, including breeding and distributing Hellenic shepherd dogs to mitigate conflicts with large carnivores.
    • Fieldwork Opportunities: Engage in hands-on data collection, wetland surveys, and ecosystem monitoring to advance conservation goals.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Support educational programs and community outreach to promote environmental stewardship.
    • Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaborate with bilingual experts, veterinarians, and researchers trained internationally, offering a unique global perspective on conservation practices.
    Available Research Projects:

    Participants can choose from a variety of specialized areas, including:

    • Animal Husbandry
    • Behavior studies on wolves, brown bears, and lynx
    • Wetland surveys, focusing on species diversity, activity patterns, and population dynamics
    • Habitat management and restoration initiatives
    • Public awareness and education campaigns
    Why Choose This Program?

    The Wildlife Research Internship provides a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in conservation efforts that directly impact Greece’s natural heritage. Whether conducting research in the field or contributing to public awareness initiatives, interns gain invaluable insights into wildlife management and biodiversity conservation.

    Unique Features of the Program:
    • Expert Mentorship: Work alongside seasoned professionals and veterinarians specializing in conservation biology.
    • Practical Experience: Participate in real-world conservation projects with tangible impacts on wildlife and ecosystems.
    • Comprehensive Learning: Explore the “in situ” and “ex situ” approaches to conservation through research and direct involvement.
    • Global Network: Build connections with a diverse team of international and local experts.
    Important Considerations

    This internship requires self-motivation and adaptability to work in a field-based environment. Participants should be prepared for varying field conditions and exhibit a passion for conservation.

    Make an Impact Today

    Take the first step towards a career in wildlife conservation and research. Join the Wildlife Research Internship in Greece to gain professional experience, contribute to impactful projects, and play a role in protecting some of Europe’s most iconic species. Apply now to be part of this meaningful journey!

    Associated career paths:

    Environmental Scientist (Policy/Planning/Law), Soil and Plant Scientist, Ecologist, Biologist, Climatologist, Habitat Specialist, Ranger, Environmental Biologist, Wildlife Biologist.



    Typical day

    On the first day, students receive an induction, meet the organization’s departments, tour the sanctuaries, and get their personalized schedule developed by the Research Department.

    Students focused on animal behavior arrive early at the sanctuaries to monitor selected animals until the afternoon. ..

    Typical day

    On the first day, students receive an induction, meet the organization’s departments, tour the sanctuaries, and get their personalized schedule developed by the Research Department.

    Students focused on animal behavior arrive early at the sanctuaries to monitor selected animals until the afternoon. Fieldwork students join the research team in a 4x4 vehicle to collect samples, track animal paths, set and maintain camera traps, and gather biosignature and DNA data. Regular meetings with the Research Department help students design and implement their thesis and address any issues during the internship.

    Comprehensive training on species identification, field survey techniques, and project-specific methods is provided before starting the internship. The experimental design and execution of each project are determined collaboratively by the Internship Coordinator, the student, and their thesis supervisor. Students typically work 5 days a week, 8 hours a day, totaling 40 hours per week. However, due to the nature of fieldwork, hours may occasionally extend.


    Sample Schedule for Field Research Students (5 days/week, weekends off)

    •     08:45 am: Meeting at the Research Department office
    •     09:00 am – 04:30 pm: Fieldwork (lunch and rest breaks in the field at varying times, typically between 12 pm and 2 pm). Students must carry packed lunch and water.
    •     04:30 pm – 05:00 pm: Return to headquarters and accommodation (*fieldwork may occasionally extend until 6-8 pm based on deliverables).
    •     05:00 pm onwards: Free time (most students engage in recreational activities).

    Field students are encouraged to sleep at least 7 hours per night, from Sunday to Thursday, to stay well-rested for demanding fieldwork. Friday and Saturday nights are more flexible, as there is no fieldwork the following day.


    Sample Schedule for Ethology Students (5 days/week, weekends included, with two days off during weekdays)

    •     09:00 am: Departure for the bear, wolf, lynx, or jackal sanctuary
    •     09:45 am: Preparation for monitoring (students must be ready to record behavior by 10:00 am)
    •     10:00 am – 12:30 pm: Morning monitoring session
    •     12:30 pm – 01:25 pm: Lunch and rest break (taken in staff rooms equipped with fridges, coffee machines, microwaves, and kitchenware)
    •     01:25 pm – 04:30 pm: Afternoon monitoring session (students must be ready to record by 1:30 pm)
    •     04:30 pm – 04:45 pm: Return to the staff room and await transport back to headquarters and accommodation
    •     05:00 pm onwards: Free time (most students participate in recreational activities).

    Ethology students typically have two days off per week, with one fixed day off on Wednesdays and the second day chosen based on their needs (often Monday due to weekend work).


    Free-time activities

    During your free time in the remote and picturesque region of Western Macedonia, you’ll have a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Unlike popular Greek destinations, this area offers tranquility, beautiful mountain landscapes, and rich ...

    Free-time activities

    During your free time in the remote and picturesque region of Western Macedonia, you’ll have a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Unlike popular Greek destinations, this area offers tranquility, beautiful mountain landscapes, and rich wildlife.

    You can explore the region on foot by trekking along well-maintained trails, including the famous European trail path E4, or use one of the 15 mountain bikes provided by the host organisation to discover scenic routes. For a more adventurous experience, try horseback riding, canoeing, or archery, all available at nearby outdoor activities companies.

    The nearby villages and small towns offer essential amenities, such as grocery shops, pharmacies, taverns, and coffee shops, allowing you to experience local life at a relaxed pace. While the area lacks the typical nightlife of big cities, you can still enjoy a peaceful evening at a local coffee shop or tavern.

     During your weekends you can travel to near by cities, towns or take the ferry to one of the hundreds of picturesque islands.


    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 (fluently)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    CV, Passport copy, Profile Photo and Health Check

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    Participants need to be physically fit and able to undertake manual labor, enjoy practical activities, work quickly and reliably both as part of a team and independently, have good oral and written communication skills, be safety aware.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    To apply for this internship, its quick, easy and free!
    – Program Fees Include:

    •     24/7 in-country support
    •     Airport pick-up
    •     Customized internship plan
    •     Fully furnished shared accommodation
    •     Local English speaking coordinator
    •     International reference letter
    •     Program & host city orientation
    •     Support before, during, and after your internship
    •     Sourcing and securing your internship placement
    •     Supervisor coaching
    •     Support to gain academic credit

    – Program Fees do not include:

    •     Airport drop-off
    •     Local activities, meals/drinks (of any sort)
    •     International/local travel costs (incl public transport)
    •     Visa (if required), vaccinations
    •     Travel Insurance (mandatory), background check (mandatory)
    •     Any other service not mentioned


    We will review your application and if we accept you on this internship we will ask you to pay a non-refundable deposit to secure your place. The remaining of your internship fees (less your initial deposit payment) will be due no less than 60 days before your internship start date.

    Prior to your arrival you will also be asked to pay a $400 security deposit to cover potential damages, to the apartments and host sites, which is fully refunded after check-out within 30 days if everything is in order.

    Airport Pickup at Thessaloniki International Airport

    The program fee includes a free airport pickup from Thessaloniki Airport, on the day before the start date. To qualify for the free pickup interns are required to arrive between 9am-3pm. At the airport interns will be welcomed and transferred to the regional bus to reach the town of Aetos at the outskirts of Florina city. For interns arriving at an earlier date, an airport pickup (and bus station drop-off) maybe provided if requested and subject to availability.


    Accommodation

    The accommodation is fully furnished (single or double beds), with WiFi, shared with 1-5 other mixed-sex interns. The last night of the accommodation is the Friday night of the final week, leaving interns free to depart on Saturday. Extra nights of accommodation or private apartments can be arranged in advance, if requested and subject to availability.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) in Thessaloniki. We assist you to find cheap flights to Greece. 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 Greece provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Internships start on Tuesdays and interns have a choice to participate to a program between a minimum of 4 weeks or up to a maximum of 12 weeks. The program fee includes a free airport pickup on the Monday before the Tuesday start date (departure is always on a Friday). To qualify for the free pickup interns are required to arrive between 9am-6pm. At the airport interns will be welcomed and transferred to their housing. For interns arriving at an earlier date, a pickup maybe provided if requested and subject to availability.

    Adequate information about the city and hosting institution will be sent before arrival. It includes information about the city, local culture, rules, emergency contact numbers and the local team.

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

    Program Fees

    $711 per week 4 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 12 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
    5.0
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2026
    A great experience from start to finish. I met very smart and inspiring people, we had an amazing group of trainees and the accommodation ...
    NIZAR HANTES

    Agriculture Research

    2026
    This was an amazing experience! Despite being only 18 and having no previous clinical experience, I was warmly welcomed and given a chance ...
    Aleksander Kaczorowski

    Orthopedics Internships

    Location

    Europe > Southern Europe > Greece > Florina

    Meet your project coordinator

    Dennis
    223
    reviews
    4.96
    Outstanding
    2017
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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