Product Details
Oyster has opportunities for enthusiastic volunteers at a highly-regarded big cat sanctuary in South Africa.
The sanctuary, run by an international animal welfare charity, FOUR PAWS, was set up in 2006 and is the largest of its type in South Africa. It offers a new home to big cats that have been abused, kept in cramped conditions or confiscated from hunters.
You won't just see lions there. The sanctuary is home to other big cats and a rich variety of game species including zebra, wildebeest, impala, springbok and many more. As well as contributing to some valuable rescue and rehabilitation work you will also be carrying out research into the behaviour and interactions of lions within a group and between neighbouring lion groups. You will witness and be involved in the extraordinary and complex work for animal welfare and appreciate the experience of learning how highly sensitive big cats are.
You will also be enjoying some of the best countryside South Africa has to offer. The sanctuary is situated against a backdrop of magnificent mountains, with spectacular views of the Eastern Free State Plains below. In your time off you can visit local towns, Bethlehem and Clarens, or go further afield to the Golden Gate National Park and the stunning Drakensberg Mountains. Our representative will be able to advise and help on trips and places to visit.
What would I do?
Work at the sanctuary involves caring for the lions and other big cats, monitoring their progress and behaviour, helping with visitor education and refreshments, administration and maintenance work. Typical tasks include:
- Feeding the lions and cleaning their enclosures
- Observing the behaviour of the lions and the progress of any new arrivals
- Helping with medical treatments should it be required
- Building new structures for enclosures and helping with maintenance work
- Helping with game drives and guided horseback tours for guests
- Getting involved with the other activities at the lodge, such as the reservation departments, presentation, accommodation, conferences, weddings, hiking trails and more
- Marketing activity, like brochure distribution to local towns and the surrounding area
- Guiding school children as part of their education program
It's a great opportunity for someone who has a keen interest in big cats, enjoys being part of a team and is prepared to get involved in all aspects of conservation work.
Getting there
A flight will be arranged to Johannesburg, followed by a three hour car drive to the Sanctuary.
Accommodation
You will stay in comfortable accommodation at the sanctuary with other volunteers and some staff. There are facilities for self-catering.
What support will I get?
Oyster will prepare you thoroughly before you leave and support you while you are out there. Once you arrive in-country, our representative be on hand to assist with any queries or problems.
What to do next
If you are thinking seriously about one or more of Oyster’s projects, the next step is to fill in our application form. This doesn’t commit you in any way, but it enables us to get in touch with you to discuss your plans and fix up an interview.
If you have any questions or queries feel free to call or email us, we are more than happy to help.
