Volunteer Research Assistants required to work on Ludwig's Bustard Project

Field research assistants are needed for the Ludwig’s Bustard Project at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute from 6 April 2010.

Ludwig’s Bustard is a poorly known bird species that is under threat from a main source of anthropogenic mortality – collision with overhead power lines. These birds are particularly susceptible to collision because they are large and heavy, so they are unable to avoid unexpected obstacles in flight. The project aims to find out more about the impacts of collisions on this and other long lived bird species in the Karoo, and investigate ways to reduce these impacts. The situation for Ludwig’s Bustard is dire, with probably unsustainable numbers of birds dying on an expanding power grid.

We need an assistant for all field work from April. Work will involve extensive road counts and power line surveys throughout the Karoo, as well as trapping and satellite tagging live birds. We are looking for someone who is able to work long hours and is happy to camp. Experience in 4x4 driving and fluency in Afrikaans would be an advantage. Ideally, we are looking for volunteers for periods of a month or more.

These positions are unpaid, but all field expenses will be covered by the project. This is an ideal opportunity to gain valuable experience in ecological field research methodology and practical conservation, and would be particularly suitable for someone who is interested in conducting postgraduate research in the future.

For more information or to apply please contact Jessica on 021 650 3306

Image: Ludwig's Bustard. Photo: Chris van Rooyen.