Interested in Biodiversity, Conservation and Herpetology? Want to gain practical experience in field research techniques? Want to travel off the beaten track in South Africa?

Why not volunteer at the Soutpansberg Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation in South Africa?

The SCBC is looking for volunteers to participate in our biodiversity data collection programme for 2017. Duration of participation can be suited to each individual (minimum 1 month).

Currently we are looking for people interested in herpetology. In addition to reptiles we are also interested in amphibians, small mammals, scorpions, Theraphosidae, Odonata and Lepidoptera as these groups are often encountered while searching for reptiles.

Our work has a strong emphasis on collecting data in very undersampled areas. Participants will be involved in data collection through biodiversity hikes, active searching and live trapping. In addition to this participants may be required to help with maintenance of the property by clearing paths. Our programme also involves travelling to different sites across the Soutpansberg Mountains.

The SCBC is an experimental and independent space for the exchange of ideas, biodiversity research and the practice of conservation. Through approaching conservation from an inclusive rather than exclusive position, our goal in terms of research is to collect information on biodiversity in the Soutpansberg and contribute this knowledge to a greater scientific and conservation community.

SCBC aims to provide an experience that will bring people into close contact with nature – uncoupled from the everyday routines of urban-based consumer culture – and to facilitate new ways of relating to the world. The main role of volunteers at this stage in the project is to help us build up the Soutpansberg Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation and continue our current research. This is achieved through active participation in the programme and of course the funds generated through volunteer fees.

Skills and Knowledge you will acquire through participation:

Reptile and Amphibian Identification and Data Collection for Conservation
Setting up and maintaining Pit Fall and Funnel Traps for small vertebrates and invertebrates
Arthropod Identification and Data Collection for Conservation
Horticulture for Conservation
Basic Tracking
Bird Identification and Bird Conservation Data Collection
Basic Ecology and Conservation in a Changing World
Macro Photography
Living off the Grid.