Amazon cloud forest conservation internship in Peru

Travel to what UNESCO describes as one of the “last undisturbed ecosystems” of Central Peru, the Oxapampa-Ashaninka-Yánesha Biosphere Reserve. Your internship will be based in the forest of Oxapampa, just 1km away from Yanachaga-Chemillen National Park, a protected area known for its abundance of the rare cloud forest habitat. The area is home to 25% of all plant species found in Peru, including 600 species of orchid. Several indigenous communities also call the area home, including the Ashaninka and Yanesha peoples.

On this internship, you’ll learn how to carry out biodiversity surveys using bioacoustic and bioindicator monitoring. You’ll also gain techniques in animal identification using tracking and camera trapping. Learn about habitat preservation, increase the number of native species trees planted in the area in turn enriching the forest. In addition, there may be a chance to study a range of taxonomic ranks, such as macro invertebrates, or specific species such as armadillo, jaguarundi and ocelot. In addition, you may have the opportunity to identify orchids and their pollinators, build terraces to show how the land can be used to grow organic fruit and vegetables. Get involved in sustainable prototypes, such as different compost methodologies, biodigesters and grey water systems.

Highlights