Two volunteers needed from 1 November to 23 December 2024 (minimum stay of 30 days; longer commitment will be preferred) for one long-term monitoring project at Reserva de la Biosfera ‘’Parque Costero Sur’’ (MAB-UNESCO); northeast of Buenos Aires; Argentina.
We study the impact of the invasion of the exotic plant; the Yellow flag (Iris pseudacorus); on the birds community that uses coastal grassland for nesting (e.g.; Yellow-winged Blackbird (Agelasticus thilius); Brown-and-yellow Marshbird (Pseudoleistes virescens); Scarlet-headed Blackbird (Amblyramphus holosericeus); Spectacled Tyrant (Hymenops perspicillatus)). They will eventually collaborate on other projects at the same study site on the reproductive ecology of grasslands birds Pipits (Anthus spp.) and White-browed Meadowlark (Leistes superciliaris); and forest birds using nest boxes (e.g.; House Wren (Troglodytes aedon); Tufted tit-spinetail (Leptasthenura platensis); Saffron Finch (Sicalis flaveola); White-rumped Swallow (Tachycineta leucorrhoa).
We collect information on reproductive success; chick growth rates; population trends and behavior ecology. Field work will consist of territory spot mapping; nest monitoring; census; banding; conducting behavioral observations; and vegetation measurements. Research works are part of PhD thesis at Universidad Nacional de La Plata.
Volunteers will live at a rustic field camp 10 km from the nearest town. We provide lodging and required equipment. Volunteers must provide their own airfare to Buenos Aires; Argentina; and transportation from Buenos Aires to La Plata (55 km). Volunteers are required to pay a fee (US$50 per week) to cover food; lodging and help defray costs to project.
To apply: Please send a cover letter and resume (including the names; phone numbers; and e-mail addresses of 2 references) to Paula Gerstmayer paugerstmayer@ilpla.edu.ar with the subject ‘Volunteer Opportunity 2024’.
Further information to applicants will be provided and doubts cleared by e-mail.
Punta Indio; Buenos Aires
1 November to 23 December 2024 (closing: 25 October 2024)
30 days minimum
Adults of both sexes 21+
Applicants must get along well with others; be willing to work hard; and be self-motivated. Good physical condition; ability to make careful observations; and knowledge of Spanish is preferred.
Volunteers are required to pay a fee (US$50 per week) to cover food; lodging and help defray costs to project.
