Elephant Research in Sri Lanka

  Sri Lanka

Colombo Central

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks

Description: This GVI project based on the tropical island of Sri Lanka assists the work of the Sri Lankan Wildlife Conservation Society. The project offers GVI volunteers the chance to be involved in hands on conservation work and experience life on this beautiful island. Work alongside field scientists and conduct surveys of the endangered Sri Lankan elephants in the forests, grass plains and water holes. Assist in human-elephant conflict resolution to develop sustainable conservation strategies to protect the elephants. You will receive comprehensive training in the skills necessary to conduct the field work. Activities include; elephant surveys on crop raiding behaviour, taking digital images, dung counts, species inventories and direct observation.

Highlights: Explore the tropical island of Sri Lanka, receive training and get hands on experience of conservation strategies to help conserve the endangered Sri Lankan elephants. 3 meals a day and accommodation included.

Qualifications: The process to integrate untrained expedition team members to the research work will be done in three phases on the first two days at the field house.

Cost in US$: From $1435 for 2 weeks

- Full Color Expedition Briefings via email
- It keeps changing so keep logged on for up-to-date project information. You can see pictures and videos of your expedition / project and view personal bios of the staff
- Field Reps: GVI has a great team of ex-Volunteers who are only to happy to talk about their personal experiences
- Open Days: Held regularly in London these offer a great opportunity to meet the GVI team and ex Volunteers
- Expedition / Project Field Manual
- Fundraising advice and support
- International Travel Assistance and Advice through our partnership with STA Travel
- Fully comprehensive and professional insurance services
- Discounted travel guidebooks
- Discounted Outdoor Equipment
- Discounted Medical Equipment and Services
- A variety of pre-departure training opportunities including free online wildlife courses and weekend teaching courses, all exclusively developed for GVI's projects and expeditions
- Check SLWCS site for detailed information that is frequently updated on the societies work in Sri Lanka.
- Click for escape Tourism online if you want to organize a tour around your GVI expedition.

In the Field:

- Welcome and Orientation session
- Food and Accommodation
- In country coordinators for every country where GVI operates
- 24 hour emergency phone line in the UK
- Fully comprehensive on site training, often including language classes
- Training materials
- The EKNO International Phone Card. Save up to 85% on telephone calls, get an email account and stay in touch when you are on the road

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: There is no typical volunteer! All expedition members must be enthusiastic, interested in conservation and prepared to work in a team.

Age Range: 18 - 65

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Sri Lanka Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: 2008 marks a decade of commitment from GVI to all volunteers and partners. Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998