Whale shark conservation
Project name:
Madagasar Whale Shark Project (MWSP)
Project purpose:
Since 2015, our team has conducted annual research and conservation work during the whale shark season in Nosy Be (Madagascar), from September to December. The core elements of MWSPs research include monitoring the presence of whale sharks, as well as conducting in-water behavioural surveys and tourist compliance surveys in the area. We also work closely with the local community by conducting capacity building activities and encouraging sustainable practices.
Project activities:
- animal interaction
- community awareness
- data collection/analysis
- teaching
- scuba diving
Weekly cost (approx USD):
$
440
Direct benefits you gain:
- cultural integration
- field research skills
- remote scenic location
Noteworthy conservation points:
- development goals (supporting local community)
- publishes work
Wild Sun Rescue Center
Accommodation:
Shared or single bedrooms with a shared bathroom
When does the project run?
September to December
Facilities:
accommodation included, food included, electricity, local shops, refillable drinking water, western toilet, wifi
How long can I stay?
18 days or 22 days
Requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- Minimum commitment of 3 weeks
- Fluent in French & computer skills
- Excellent swimming/snorkelling skills and ability to free-dive
- Physically fit enough to spend several hours a day on a boat and/or in the water, frequently in rough conditions and current
- Ability to live closely with a small community and respect their culture
- Able to work independently and as part of a team
- Comfortable living in a shared home and in a remote setting with extremely basic amenities
- Strong work ethic with a willingness to work long and sometimes irregular hours if necessary
- Strong interest in marine biology, research and conservation
Details of the day-to-day life on the project:
What are you going to learn?
• Training in photo-identification of whale sharks
• Training in data collection for marine megafauna
• Training in GPS data collection
• Training in data recording
• Field experience
• Participating in a program to raise awareness of whale shark approach rules among tourists.
• The opportunity to become more involved in a conservation project on a daily basis
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