Overview
Dolphin Conservation in Greece

The crystal clear waters around the Island of Kalamos, Greece, have been some of the most intensively studied areas of marine mammals for many years, due to the diversity of cetaceans it is home to. This exciting project takes participants to these waters to investigate the behaviour and ecology of both bottlenose and short-beaked common dolphins, with the use of field research. You will work alongside researchers to gather and interpret data collected during surveys at sea, whilst receiving lectures and helping in the preliminary analysis of photography to gain more knowledge, experience and have a full insight into the project at hand. As well as learning new skills, this project takes you to see stunning dolphins in a beautiful location to give you a truly amazing experience!

View Film Footage, images, blogs, volunteer stories from the field, volunteer video diaries and more at the programs media centre

It's an incredible privilege to see dolphins in their natural environment. Greece makes a big thing of having dolphins - this project is a major contributing factor in making sure that dolphins remain in the area…the benefit is enormous.

Michael Spragg, UK, 2007 Volunteer

What Difference Does This Project Make?

The work carried out by this project is producing science-based information, aimed to contribute towards dolphin conservation in the Mediterranean Sea. These efforts have contributed to the area qualifying as a 'Site of Community Importance'. In 2003 and 2005, the Mediterranean common dolphin population was listed as 'Endangered' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and included in Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species. You will be part of a scientific team and will learn about marine conservation priorities, apply advanced dolphin investigation methods and help with research at sea.

Highlights

Having the unique experience of being within close contact of dolphins in their natural environment; aiding the field research by getting directly involved in field activities and helping the researchers to collect and analyze cetacean data; and trekking along the islands fantastic trails that lead you to beautiful small, untouched bays.

Location

Kalamos Island, Ionian Sea, Greece, about 450km North from Athens or 40 km from Preveza-Aktio airport. The island of Kalamos remains untouched by mass tourism. It is characterised by its luxuriant vegetation (including pine, olive and almond trees), typical Mediterranean bush and small bays and rocky shores that face a blue and emerald-green sea.

Field Conditions

During your stay on the project you will share the field-base with the research staff - in a traditional Greek-style house with bedrooms, toilets, hot water, kitchen facilities and electricity. You will be asked to share cooking and cleaning shifts with the other participants. Daily surveys at sea will be held using a 5.8m-long inflatable boat.