Job Description
Based at Bosque Escondido, one of Rescate Wildlife Center’s official release sites, this internship is dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing rescued wildlife back into their natural habitats. Interns will support final-stage release efforts for animals such as primates, sloths, wild cats, and others who have been rescued from the illegal pet trade or brought in injured, sick, or orphaned.
This immersive field program is ideal for undergraduate and master’s students who are passionate about conservation and interested in pursuing fieldwork careers, especially those with little to no previous experience. Interns will gain hands-on experience in data collection and analysis, wildlife tracking, and fieldwork alongside experienced professionals.
Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities:
- Working with teams to monitor and release critically endangered and rescued animals
- Collecting data and monitoring the animals
- Preparing food, refilling wildlife feeding stations
- Conceptualizing, creating, and implementing environmental enrichment activities
- Personal Project: Volunteers who stay 8 weeks or longer have the opportunity to design and spearhead their own project
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Minimum 18+ years of age by the expected internship start date
- Must be fluent in English and comfort in a Spanish-speaking environment is encouraged
- Strong interest in conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, biology, ecology, or forestry
- Moderate physical fitness and the ability to endure humid and temperate climates
Program Details:
- Cost: $495/week
- Dates: dates are flexible upon discussion.
- Location: Bosque Escondido, Rescate Golfo Dulce Release Site, Costa Rica
- Inclusions: Rescate will provide accommodation, linens, and all 3 meals
- Schedule: every day will be different, but most days will run on a 6:00am – 4:30pm schedule; interns have 2 days off a week
- Lead Instructors: Dr Rosanne Beukeboom and Eric dos Santos.