HUMPBACK WHALE RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC The Marine Biology Association Odyssea (www.odyssea.lu), together with the local organisation CEBSE (www.samana.org.do), is offering humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) research internships in the Bay of Samaná, in the North of the Dominican Republic. Part of the National Marine Mammal Sanctuary, this is the largest bay in the Caribbean, and where the North Atlantic humpback whales congregate to give birth to their calves, and mate.
CEBSE has been carrying out research on humpback whales for 10 years in this bay, and we now have a catalogue with over 900 identified whales. Interns will actively contribute to this research effort, and will also collect data from land on interactions between vessels and whales. These internships are available for durations ranging from 2 to 10 weeks, from the 27th of January until the 30th of March. Volunteers will be introduced to and participate in the research techniques involving boat-based photo identification, land-based surveys, behavioural studies and acoustics. No previous experience is required. There are approximately 15 whale-watching boats which will be used by the volunteers to go out at sea and study the whales every day. Cost of the internship: 300$ per week This fee includes: - Transfers from and to the airport of Santo Domingo by public transports (very comfortable AC buses) - Basic accommodation in the small town of Santa Barbara de Samaná on a shared apartment basis - 3 meals a day prepared by a local Dominican lady - Boat-based humpback whale photo-identification and behavioural data collection trips - Training sessions in cetacean research techniques and softwares - Lectures on biology and conservation of cetaceans - Extra curricular activities: snorkelling trips, dance classes (salsa, bachata and merengue) and Spanish lessons This fee does not include flights to and from the Dominican Republic, the visa on arrival (10$), compulsory health and travel insurance, and personal expenses. There will be one day off per week to explore the island on own costs. At the end of the internship a certificate will be issued summing up all the skills acquired by the participants. If you are interested in joining this internship, please contact us at [email protected] and we will send you a detailed document to assist you with your travel arrangements. Dr Pierre Gallego President of Odyssea www.odyssea.lu
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