Wildlife conservation and community volunteer projects and internships worldwide

Volunteer for Wildlife Conservation: Ensuring Biodiversity and Securing a Future for Earth's Inhabitants

"In the grand tapestry of life, every creature weaves its unique thread. As custodians of Earth, let's safeguard this magnificent masterpiece for generations to come. The conservation of wildlife, and biodiversity, is one of the most critical issues of our time—and it is at the heart of what we do at WorkingAbroad."

Vicky McNeil (WorkingAbroad Founder)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of wildlife conservation and volunteer to make a tangible impact in preserving Earth’s valuable biodiversity. Engaging in wildlife conservation opens doors to understanding the intricate balance of our ecosystems and the pivotal role each species, from the majestic elephants to the smallest insects, plays in maintaining them.

Unravel the Complexity of Biodiversity

Our planet’s astounding biodiversity is a testament to the intricate balance of life. Home to an estimated 8.7 million species, the world’s biodiversity plays a vital role in the overall health of our planet, providing everything from clean air and water to food sources and medicinal resources. However, human activities have put this precious biodiversity at risk. Habitat loss, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade threaten countless species, including our big cats & predators, dolphins & whales, primates, and birds, leading to unprecedented rates of extinction.

The Dire Need for Wildlife Conservation

Wildlife conservation is no longer a choice but a necessity. By volunteering in wildlife conservation, you become part of the solution, helping to restore balance and ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from the planet’s biodiversity. Volunteer work includes data collection, environmental education, habitat restoration, and direct care for animals in sanctuaries. This hands-on experience will not only broaden your understanding of conservation but will also provide a stepping stone towards a career in wildlife or environmental science.

Be a Part of the Solution

The ultimate goal of wildlife conservation is to ensure the survival and wellbeing of all species and to maintain the balance of our ecosystems. To achieve this, we must protect vital habitats, such as our coral reefs, and ensure the wellbeing of key species, such as turtles & reptiles. As a volunteer, you can contribute to this effort, helping to collect data, restore habitats, and raise awareness of the need to protect our planet’s biodiversity.

Venture into a Career in Wildlife Conservation

Volunteering in wildlife conservation not only makes a difference in the world, it can also serve as a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career in this field. You’ll gain practical skills and knowledge about various species and their habitats, and how best to protect them. Working on the frontline of conservation, you’ll get a deep understanding of the challenges and successes in this field. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to network with experts and like-minded individuals who can provide guidance and connections as you navigate your career path.

Embarking on a Journey in Wildlife Conservation

Through WorkingAbroad’s projects, you can experience the raw beauty of nature while making a real difference. By becoming a wildlife conservation volunteer, you will join a global community working tirelessly to protect our planet’s biodiversity and secure a future for all its inhabitants.

Our Projects with Wildlife Conservation

  • Maldives Island Volunteer Project

    • Duration 1-12 Weeks
    • Prices from £1595

    Volunteer in the Maldives and join marine conservation and medical projects within the tropical island of Naifaru, the capital of the Lhaviyani Atoll.  Add on coral reef restoration diving available, as well as student vet and family opportunities available.

  • Conservation Volunteering in New Zealand

    • Duration 1-12 Weeks
    • Prices from £555

    Become a conservation volunteer and enjoy beautiful environments across New Zealand, whilst contributing to practical conservation projects.

  • Wildlife Monitoring & Deep Wilderness Expedition, Sweden

    • Duration 3 Weeks
    • Prices from £1630

    Join a comprehensive field expedition designed to teach you many skills you will need for future adventures in the deep wilderness or even for a future career in wildlife biology.

  • Caribbean Reef Buddy Diving Project, Carriacou, West Indies

    • Duration 1 Week+
    • Prices from £685

    Become a Caribbean Reef Buddy volunteer and join us on the beautiful island of Carriacou near Grenada. Try some Caribbean diving, learn to dive in the warm, crystal clear waters of the Caribbean and play an active part in our exciting marine conservation projects.  Also an opportunity to kick-start your diving career with our Eco Divemaster programme!

  • Wildlife Rescue Internship Project, Canada

    • Duration 4 weeks-6 Months
    • Prices from £195

    Join a team of passionate animal husbandry professionals in the field and get hands-on experience in a wildlife rehabilitation centre that specialises in the treatment, care and release of sick, injured and orphaned Canadian native mammal species including black bear, raccoon, river otter, beaver and more.

  • Olive Ridley Sea Turtle Volunteer Programme, Costa Rica

    • Duration 2 -12 weeks
    • Prices from £685

    Volunteer in Costa Rica and become a sea turtle volunteer, helping to conserve and protect the populations of vulnerable Olive Ridleys. Located on the spectacular Pacific coast where Olive Ridley turtles come up in thousands at a time for this phenomenon of nature called ‘arribadas’.

  • Galapagos Conservation Volunteers

    • Duration 2 to 12 Weeks
    • Prices from £1465

    Volunteer on a range of wildlife conservation and environmental projects on Isabela island, Galapagos. Join a dynamic team of volunteers and local staff while supporting the unique ecosystem of the Galapagos islands.

  • Ocean Research Conservation Project, South Africa

    • Duration 1 week - 10 months
    • Prices from £635

    Volunteer with dolphin, seal and whale research in South Africa. Take part in marine conservation, penguin rescue and educational projects along the South African coast.

  • Pacific Sea Turtle Volunteer Project, Costa Rica

    • Duration 1 - 12 weeks
    • Prices from £430

    Volunteer with sea turtles in Costa Rica on our Olive, Green and Hawksbill Ridley turtle research programme on the spectacular Pacific coast of Costa Rica on the amazing Playa Hermosa, at Punta Mala beach.

  • Statia Conservation Volunteer Project, St. Eustatius, Caribbean

    • Duration 8-12 Weeks
    • Prices from £180

    Volunteer in the Caribbean on the stunning island of St. Eustatius, in the Dutch Antilles, overlooking St. Kitts in the Caribbean Sea

  • Animal Rescue Volunteer Project, Portugal

    • Duration 2 Weeks+
    • Prices from £457

    Volunteer at an ethical animal rescue sanctuary in picturesque Portugal. Learn about animal behaviour, animal welfare, rescue animals and forest restoration.

  • Blue Lagoon Coral Reef Project, Mauritius

    • Duration 1 week to 3 months
    • Prices from £630

    Volunteer in Mauritius in the Indian Ocean and take part in a coral reef monitoring and marine conservation volunteer and internship programme, which includes coral reef farming and restoration, lagoon monitoring and sea turtle research in the beautiful Blue Bay Marine Park.

Vicky McNeil (WorkingAbroad Founder)

"In the grand tapestry of life, every creature weaves its unique thread. As custodians of Earth, let's safeguard this magnificent masterpiece for generations to come. The conservation of wildlife, and biodiversity, is one of the most critical issues of our time—and it is at the heart of what we do at WorkingAbroad."

Vicky McNeil (WorkingAbroad Founder)
Weird and Wonderful Wildlife Facts:

Weird and Wonderful Wildlife Facts:

  1. Colour-Changing Creatures: The chameleon can change its skin colour to communicate, regulate its temperature, and blend into its surroundings.
  2. Long-Distance Travellers: Arctic terns migrate over 25,000 kilometers from the Arctic to the Antarctic each year, experiencing two summers.
  3. Deepest Divers: The Cuvier’s beaked whale can dive over 3,000 meters deep and hold its breath for over two hours.
  4. Largest Wingspan: The wandering albatross has the largest wingspan of any bird, reaching up to 3.5 meters.
  5. Tiny Giants: The Bumblebee bat is the world’s smallest mammal, weighing less than a penny.
  6. Tallest Mammals: Giraffes, the tallest mammals on Earth, can reach heights of up to 6 meters.
Considerations for a Wildlife-friendly Diet:

Considerations for a Wildlife-friendly Diet:

  1. Choose Plant-Based: Decreasing the consumption of animal products reduces the demand for livestock farming, which is a major driver of habitat loss and deforestation.
  2. Select Sustainable Seafood: Overfishing threatens marine ecosystems. Opt for certified sustainable seafood to support responsible fishing practices.
  3. Avoid Unsustainable Palm Oil: Unsustainable palm oil contributes to deforestation and habitat loss for species such as orangutans. Opt for certified sustainable palm oil instead.
  4. Buy Local and Organic: Local and organic farming practices can benefit local wildlife by promoting biodiversity and reducing the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers.
  5. Reduce Food Waste: Wasted food contributes to unnecessary land use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  6. Avoid Exotic Pets: The trade in exotic pets often involves wildlife trafficking and can contribute to species endangerment.
Actions to Support Wildlife Conservation:

Actions to Support Wildlife Conservation:

  1. Support Conservation Organisations: Donate to and volunteer with organisations committed to wildlife conservation.
  2. Raise Awareness: Educate others about the importance of wildlife conservation and sustainable practices.
  3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Decrease your consumption and waste production, reducing pressure on natural resources and habitats.
  4. Choose Sustainable Products: Support companies that commit to sustainable practices and do not harm wildlife or their habitats.
  5. Plant Native Species: Native plants provide food and habitat for local wildlife and help maintain biodiversity.
  6. Avoid Products Linked to Habitat Destruction: Avoid goods associated with deforestation or habitat loss, such as non-sustainable palm oil, wood, and paper products.