Marine Conservation with Dolphins & Whales in Mauritius

Monitor wild Dolphin and Whale populations along the coast of Mauritius and make a vital contribution to the work of a local NGO. You'll help raise awareness about the impact of tourism on these species, aiming to ensure a sustainable future for all. This fantastic research opportunity would suit anyone with a love of the outdoors and a passion for marine life.

Research involves taking photographs of dolphin and whale sightings to provide fin profiles for identification, population estimates and distribution studies. Photographs and data sheets compiled during research trips form a vital part of a much larger ecological study of marine mammals along the cost of Mauritius. Field research is then combined with office-based analysis of fin profiles and notch characteristics.

The volunteer programme plays a vital role assisting with research, conservation and awareness in the area, as well as generating funds to ensure the continuity of such research. Some of the duties you may help with during your time on this project include;

• Data collection and analysis for ongoing projects, especially with regards to population parameters of coastal dolphins and whales. This requires field-based research on the boat, which may take place 2 or 3 times per week depending on weather. Here you'll photograph animals, track their movements, record environmental conditions and map habitat use. There is occasionally the opportunity to swim with the dolphins – it helps to track them. When they dive to the bottom it can be hard to know where they will re-surface, so if swimmers can assist by snorkelling above the water then the boat can track them more easily and the rest of the crew have more time to get information about group size etc.
• Learning about research techniques and methodology used during dolphin research, such as fin profile identification. You'll receive training on this during small workshops throughout your stay.
• Humpback whale work includes photographing hump/fin profiles and tail fluke patterns for identification purposes, in conjunction with taking skin biopsy samples. While this is an exciting, field-based study it is currently done opportunistically and is very dependent on the availability of researchers and whales, as humpback whales do migrate seasonally. Samples are taken as they pass along the coastline – primarily from August to November.
• Speaking to local tourists and boat operators as part of survey research on the dolphin watching industry. You may also go out on a tourist boat (catamaran) to gather data through questionnaires with the tourists.
• Research boat checks and equipment maintenance
• Beach or lagoon clean ups
• Office-based duties including data analysis, record keeping and administration.
• Preparing educational activities for schools

• An exciting, never-to-be-forgotten adventure into Australian culture.
• You'll learn a lot from experts in your field about how they work in a cultural environment that's different to what you're used to.
• New skills, more confidence, a greater understanding of a different culture, invaluable personal and professional development.
• An entry on your CV or résumé that will put you head and shoulders above most others in the job market
• And best of all ... an unforgettable experience!

During your stay you will live and work in a house in La Preneuse. The property is a 2 minute walk to the beach and easy access to some small restaurants, supermarket and bus stops.

Depending on the number of volunteers, you may have your own room. In this two-storey house the office is situated on the first floor and the volunteers live on the ground floor. It is equipped with a large living area and a dining/kitchen area, two toilets and a shower. A balcony front and back is perfect for relaxing after work and watching the glorious sunsets!

Talk to us - We're there to help you. Most of our team are ex Travellers volunteers and are ideally qualified to offer advice and guidance because they know what you're looking for. They'll help you find your perfect project - and then make it all happen!

If you’d like to apply for this project. Visit our website and complete the application form. As soon as we receive it, we’ll liaise with you and then start making your travel adventure happen.

It’s as easy as that.