Volunteer in Costa with IOI: Sea Turtle and Ray Research Volunteer
- Costa Rica
About Program
The Sea Turtle and Ray Research Volunteer will assist in ongoing sea turtle and ray monitoring projects in the waters and beaches of El Jobo on the North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. You will work side-by-side with local community members to conduct night patrols of the beach, looking for nesting sea turtles, collecting data, and tagging the turtles. The sea turtles seen in El Jobo (Green, Olive Ridley, and sometimes Hawksbill) are all endangered species. Your work will help collect needed data about these populations of turtles as well as help protect them from poachers.
In addition to the sea turtle monitoring, you will also monitor the local ray populations by snorkeling and collecting data on the species and sometimes tagging them to better understand their migratory patterns. Other potential activities are sea grass and coral reef monitoring.
You also have the option of visiting the local elementary school to assist in their marine education program and English classes.
Video and Photos
Program Highlights
- Gain experience working on a local community-based conservation project.
- Learn how to conduct marine science research and conservation, specifically related to sea turtles.
- Live in a beautiful coastal community and get practice speaking Spanish with your homestay family.
- Interact with community members and teach children about conservation.
- Embrace Costa Rica's "pura vida", laidback lifestyle!