Volunteers will join local biologists researching Jaguar, Puma and other cats and their prey at the privately owned research of El Eden on the northern Yucatan Peninsula. At the research center you will assist with camera trapping, habitat mapping and prey species research, and assist in the conservation of these species and their ecosystems. Jaguars are the largest cat in the Americas, and the 3rd largest in the world, but deforestation, land partitioning, poaching and illegal trade has converted this species in one of the most threatened of the region. If volunteers are present at the right time, they may be able to observe the team trap and mark Jaguar and Puma. This is an amazing and unique opportunity to help out on a critically important conservation program in Mexico.

How this program makes a difference:

Jaguars, once common in the region, are quickly disappearing from the Yucatan Peninsula. Deforestation, land partitioning, poaching and illegal trade has converted this species in one of the most threatened of this part of the world. The Reserva Ecologica El Eden was established in 1993 with the objective of conserving key ecosystems for the conservation of Jaguar and Puma. This reserve would have been developed without the reserve, due to its proximity to Cancun. The work carried out during your stay will help increase our knowledge on Jaguar and Puma and their eco-systems and allow for management plans to be developed and implemented within this reserve and in other areas.

Highlights:

·         Participate in placing and checking camera traps for cats (jaguar, pumas and ocelots) & potential prey

·         Wildlife tracking

·         Learn how to identify jaguar, puma, ocelot, deer and pecari faeces

·         Hike through wetlands and forests

·         Trek to unspoiled cenotes (sink hole) for a swim

·         Observe crocodiles and learn their behavior patterns

·         Enjoy magnificent sunrise and sunsets above the forest canopy from our 16 foot high cabanas and 30 foot high observation tower

·         Live and learn in one of the most pristine forests of the Yucatan Peninsula

Qualifications:

No special training or qualifications are required as you will receive training in the field.

Included:

The volunteer contribution includes all food and accommodation, transfers to and from the reserve from the meeting point, all training materials, science equipment, 24 hour in-country support and a 24 hour emergency phone line.