VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR DOLPHIN RESEARCH

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We invite you to join our ongoing study of the behaviour, habitat use and social lives of these amazing dolphins off the north-eastern coast of Sardinia Island. Dedicated to those who are interesting to participate to marine mammals research and conservation campaigns. No specific experience is required to participate as volunteers with the BDRI.

The project runs weekly from February to November / arrival on Monday.

A dolphin volunteering period require a minimum of 6 days, and - weather permitting - we will be out on the water at least during 4 days per week.

Although our volunteering project focuses primarily on bottlenose dolphins, you will also experience the complex Mediterranean coastal ecosystem in which we live and work. If you are planning to spend a period as part of your continuing education or a gap year, and are looking for a hands-on learning experience that incorporates boat based field work, marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work hard, have fun, and learn from the dolphins and each other, then consider studying abroad with the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute.

Working with us and our staff, you will rotate between tasks on land and sea. Onboard our research boats you will work together with our team in search of cetaceans. To refine details of bottlenose dolphin population biology and responses to human activities at sea, we will take identification photos, observe behaviour, and monitor vocalizations using a hydrophone.

Volunteers will participate in boat-based research surveys investigating ecology and behaviour of bottlenose dolphins on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, Italy. Volunteers will actively participate in data collection and analyses as part of an ongoing research. You will learn to spot bottlenose dolphins and sea birds. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel in the seagrass beds, walk the beaches of the research area and meet the local people.

Dedicated to those who are interesting to participate to dolphin research and conservation campaigns. It is open to anyone age 18 and above, with no special prerequisites concerning marine mammals research experience. No background knowledge of cetaceans is required, we ask only for you willing to learn about the dolphins and their environment. To be successful participants in this project, volunteers should have open minds, flexibility in changing situations, and a desire to help and to learn.

The assistance of volunteers is crucial to the success of this project. They assist with data collection and recording while on the boat, helping to locate and keep track of dolphin groups, recording sighting and behavioural data, collecting environmental information and recording sounds or photographic data. Back at the lab, volunteers may occasionally be asked to restock field supplies or check and transcribe that each day's data sheets are complete. Boat cleaning and maintenance may also be required.

Previous experience in the use of binoculars, computers, and cameras would be a bonus but is not required.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PARTICIPATION FEE AND THE APPLICATION FORM