Amazon Rainforest Wildlife Rescue and Release in Ecuador

What is the Amazon Rainforest Wildlife Rescue in Ecuador all about?

Support efforts to protect local species on this wildlife rescue in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest The project was founded in 2006 by a local family, in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment and the Environmental Police, to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals that have been victims of abuse and animal trafficking. The centre has 4 hectares of land to house hundreds of animals, including parrots, monkeys, turtles, wild cats, capybaras, caymans, and many more. Prepare for new animals arriving at the center that have been rescued from large Ecuadorian markets, plazas and homes where people have been keeping them illegally as pets.
The ultimate aim, where possible, is to release the animals back into their natural habitat in the wild; a unique and rewarding experience to be involved in as a volunteer. The sanctuary also utilizes an additional 70 hectares for release and research purposes. Read more about the project by reading our blog Volunteering in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador.

Why choose this Amazon Rainforest Wildlife Rescue programme in Ecuador?

The project will benefit from your support in helping the overworked staff, not just with daily work, but also to reach their long-term goals. These objectives include: moving existing infrastructure and animals to a bigger location, and developing partnerships with local environmental authorities to advocate for protected natural habitats where the animals can be re-introduced. Feel empowered as you are given responsibilities and tasks around the sanctuary, which vary each day, and witness first hand the rewards of your hard work. You will benefit by gaining up-close interaction with wild animals and by working in advocacy for this important cause; both being experiences worthy of adding to your CV/resume.

Role of the Conservation volunteer

Helping with regular maintenance of the center’s spaces is an important aspect of your daily work. The team are hugely passionate about animal welfare but with inadequate resources and low staff members, the sanctuary always needs assistance with: cleaning the cages, feeding the animals, enrichment activities, repairing animals’ shelters, constructing new homes for incoming animals and nurturing traumatised species back to a more stable state of mental health. Occasionally, the project provides tours for school groups in order to educate local children about the importance of caring for animals. Volunteers may be asked to help with these groups, giving you an opportunity to use your English and/or Spanish.

There is a clinic for injured / unwell animals on site and there may also be the opportunity to observe the resident veterinarian. Those with experience in veterinary science or biology will be able to work with the sanctuary coordinators, taking more of an active role in the animal care and in the technical aspects of running the rescue center.

What skills do I need to be a Wildlife Rescue Volunteer?

No specific qualifications are required, however a level of comfort with animals is needed. This is an active program so work hard and directly benefit the animals and sanctuary. Spanish skills are not required for this placement, although they will help to integrate you more with the local community and staff. A background in veterinary science, biology or environmental conservation is very useful. Experience working in environmental policy (administrative or legal level) would be a plus! 

Travel during COVID times

The health and safety of our travelers and our local communities remain central to our plans for reopening countries and projects. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been adapting our programs and protocols to protect all those involved, and ask for everyone’s patience and collaboration as new rules are implemented in-country. For all projects, new standards of sanitation, procedures and social behaviors are in place, including new health and hygiene protocols and social distancing practices. You can read more here. Each location may be slightly different in the way they operate. We encourage you to inquire to your placement advisor to learn more about your specific project as you plan for your responsible return to travel!

Read all about our project reopening response to COVID-19

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