ARCHIVED SCOTIA - Burrowing Bettong Trapping Survey Scotia 13th May-17th May 2024
Hello and thank you for signing up to AWC volunteering list! We have a volunteering opportunity at Scotia Sanctuary coming up:
Key Details
Burrowing Bettong Mammal Trapping Survey Scotia Sanctuary
-
Sanctuary: Scotia Sanctuary
-
Dates: From 13/05/24 to 17/05/24 inclusive. These dates are subject to change due to weather conditions.
-
Role: Volunteer Survey Assistant
-
Volunteer contact: Jessica Holding
E: Jessica.Holding@australianwildlife.org
Office: 03 5022 8557
-
Regional Administrator: Mandy Gowty
E: Amanda.Gowty@australianwildlife.org
Office: 03 5022 8557
Project Specifics
Volunteers will carry out tasks at the direction of their AWC Team Leader and Sanctuary Staff.
Volunteers are sought to assist AWC field ecologists with our annual Burrowing Bettong mammal trapping survey for the year. The trapping survey consists of three cage traps set at 114 sites located in the Stage 1 fenced area (~4000ha) of Scotia Sanctuary to gain populations estimates and general body condition data.
The fauna survey will take place over a week period between 13th May and 17th May (weather dependent). Work will be conducted at night with traps set at dusk (5pm to 7pm) and checked 3 hours later (10pm-4am). The process of checking traps can take several hours so we will be working into the early hours of the morning. Primary tasks will include setting cage traps, assisting AWC staff with processing mammals, taking measurements, body condition scores and entering field data. Time will be allocated for volunteers to rest during the day before commencing fieldwork in the late afternoon.
There is the chance to catch and handle Burrowing Bettongs and Greater Bilbies. And the potential to opportunistically see Bridled Nail-tail Wallabies and Numbats (during the day). Plus, many arid bird species so bring your binoculars if you’re a keen birder!
Volunteers will work under instruction from AWC staff and will be required to adhere to AWC’s workplace safety and animal handling guidelines. Previous experience is strongly desired, but not essential. All volunteers will receive a full induction into the project and comprehensive training from AWC staff.
We’re looking for enthusiastic people interested in learning more about our unique wildlife and their conservation. This opportunity would be great for anyone interested in gaining more experience in animal handling and field-based skills required for a career in conservation.
Volunteer Tasks:
The execution of tasks associated with the position will involve working outdoors and through the night. You will be required to bait and set traps, assist with navigation to trap sites, assist with animal processing and field data entry. Bait balls contain peanut butter so unfortunately, we cannot take anyone with a peanut allergy. A moderate level of fitness is required, sites are checked by driving a car between sites and then all animal processing will be conducted outside of the ute. Trap sites are along the road system of the park so there is not too much walking at night through the bush. Be prepared for long nights in the field as trap checking will take may hours and may not finish until the early hours of the morning. The ability to work well as part of a small team in a remote location and maintain a positive attitude in challenging conditions is essential.
Logistics:
Volunteers need to arrive in Buronga, NSW at 2pm on 12/05/24. This will allow time to meet the AWC field staff before heading up to Scotia Sanctuary. Transport to/from Scotia Sanctuary will be provided; however, you will need to make your own way to Mildura. Alternatively, you can make your own way to Scotia Sanctuary on the 12/05/24 ensuring that you arrive at the sanctuary by 4pm.
Single room accommodation will be provided at Scotia, however if you would prefer to bring your own camping equipment you may. Facilities include a communal kitchen with all cooking equipment, shared bathroom, drinking water and communal spaces.
Volunteers will need to bring: bedding, towel, field appropriate clothing (Long sleeve shirt, long pants, hat, sturdy shoes etc.), head torch, water bottle (2L) and toiletries. It gets cold so bring thermal layers, beanie, scarf, gloves, balaclava, multiple jumpers etc. Optional: thermos and/or hot water bottle.
AWC will provide: Meals- Please remind us of your dietary requirements or allergies- if you have any!
Please get in contact if you would be interested in volunteering on this survey and we will send you a confirmation email with more information!
Thanks for being part of the AWC Team!
Qualifications Required
- I have read and agree to the Code of Conduct (see info icon for file link) Must be I Agree
- I have read and agree to abide by the Volunteer Agreement (see info icon for file link) Must be I Agree
