Parrots

Do you love exotic birds? Here you have the opportunity to work with incredibly impressive and charismatic macaws. If you are passionate about parrots and conservation, volunteering in one of these projects will be perfect for you. Costa Rica is home to two of the most famous species of parrots, both threatened with extinction. For one species there is only a world-wide population of 3500 birds. Animal conservationists in Costa Rica are increasingly fighting against the extermination in specially designed breeding and release stations. All stations are located by the sea and are surrounded by tropical rainforest.

Explore the ultimate wild side. A unique opportunity to experience these rare birds close up.

Quick Facts

Locations:                    Pacific and Caribbean coast

Availability:                  Year-round

Minimum stay:           4 weeks

Work time:                  6 days/ week

Accommodation:       Shared room in Volunteer house

Food:                            Self-catering

About the project

This volunteer project is about the breeding and protection of native parrot species. There are countless colorful macaws awaiting you who want to be fed and cared for. The parrots that stay in the conservation centers have either been confiscated or rescued from other conditions. The magnificent jungle birds are among the most traded exotic animals on the black market. You assist biologists in the breeding of parrots and the care of injured birds. After successful breeding or rehabilitation the parrots can be released back into their natural habitat. The release sites in particular must be well studied and considered to ensure that the parrots can live in freedom and reproduce themselves. The goal of the conservation project is to raise the parrot population in Costa Rica, and save the species from extinction. Specifically, the parrot center is engaged in brood care, nature conservation issues, and the study of the habitat of the parrots. Together with researchers and other volunteers, you make sure that the natural population of the parrots is growing again.

Your tasks

-food preparation, collecting food and feeding birds
-health care of parrots
-beautification of bird houses/ constructions of toys
-maintenance/ cleaning
-monitoring behavior/ data collection
-attending visitors
-monitoring of nest sites

Accommodation

You will live with other volunteers in the volunteer house, which is located directly on the project grounds. The house can accommodate a maximum of four volunteers. There are 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and social outdoor area. Food is not included. Food supplies are bought as a group once a week. There is no hot water in the houses (as in many places in Costa Rica). Electricity is available and environmentally friendly use is requested.

Costs for participation in this project

$300 / 4 weeks

(plus organization fee)