This notice is from the archives of The Notice Board. Information contained in this notice was accurate at the time of publication but may no longer be so.
Research assistants needed for project on critically endangered Utila spiny tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura bakeri) on the island of Utila, Honduras. The project will take place mid January to late august/early September.
Project details: This project will look at the following aspects
Population structure and body condition - will involve daily surveys searching for iguanas, iguanas will be caught using hand grabs and noosing techniques, iguanas will then have PIT tags inserted for identification and biometric measurements taken.
Radio tracking (grant dependant) – this aspect of the project will require radio tracking of tagged individuals on daily basis. Both male and female iguanas will be tagged allowing us to record important breeding migration routes and home ranges of the iguanas. Research assistants will be trained in telemetry techniques in the field.
Nesting ecology (May – August) – Female iguanas will be tracked to nesting sites and nests monitored during the hatching season and nesting characteristics recorded. Hatchlings will be excavated and biometric measurements taken with given toe clips for future identification.
Research assistants will be expected to take part in all aspects of the study including data input. All training in appropriate methods will be given in the field. There will be other projects taking place at Kanahau and research assistants are invited to take part in these if they wish, these may include environmental education programs, bats, habitat mapping and surveying, invertebrates and other herpetological areas. Inquire to find out whether you can earn U of L class credit by participating in these projects!
Costs - includes accommodation at the field centre and 3 meals a day. $900 US dollars for first 3 weeks, $250 per week thereafter, for example a 6 week stay would cost $1650 USD.
This a chance to live on a beautiful tropical island and aid conservation efforts with a critically endangered species. The island is surrounded by a beautiful coral reef and there will be opportunity for RAs to scuba dive if they wish.
Research assistants will be aged 18+ and have a keen interest in conservation and be willing to work hard in a hot climate.
Apply http://www.kanahau.com/apply-now.html
Inquiries (including for other non-iguana related projects at Kanahau) - Email Daisy at dfmaryon@gmail.com (U of L specific inquiries: Email Becky at becky.friesen@gmail.com)
Contact:
Rebecca Friesen | becky.friesen@uleth.ca | kanahau.com