Survey volunteer for cetacean, turtle and seabird study in Mauritius. 7-22 June 2013. (2 weeks) The Mauritius Marine Conservation Society (MMCS) is recruiting a volunteer to assist in data collection for a project looking at species diversity and distribution of cetaceans, turtles and seabirds around the mainland of Mauritius and the northern islands. This would involve living aboard a catamaran for 5 days during the data collection stage and a further 5 days based in the office on the west coast of Mauritius (generally weekends off). The survey is the first of its kind in Mauritius and a unique opportunity to see the whole coast of the island while gaining further experience in conservation field work. You will get the chance to encounter some or all of the 13 different species already found around Mauritius. Species such as the Pan-tropical spotted dolphin, sperm whale, Melon-headed whale and the Short-finned Pilot whale or even discover a new species not yet recorded in the area. Emphasis will be placed on the further development of both the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin and spinner dolphin photo-ID catalogues. A primary goal of the project is to assess the potential for whale and dolphin watching in other areas of the island so as to relieve pressure on the west coast populations. Skills and experience: · Willingness to spend long hours on the sea in sometimes difficult conditions. · Highly motivated and able to concentrate for several hours at a time. · Photo identification experience preferred - you will assist in the updating of bottlenose and spinner dolphin photo identification catalogues and possibly the development of photo-ID catalogues from other species encountered. · Knowledge of turtle and seabird identification for the western Indian Ocean is a bonus. · Good people skills - you will be living in close quarters with others. · Ability to work in a team environment maintaining focus on work quality. · Preferably educated to at least degree level in marine science/biology. Please note that this is an *unpaid* position. The successful applicant will contribute 700GBP to cover airport transfers, food and accommodation on the catamaran, and accommodation during the second week. During the second week accommodation, bedding, laundry facilities and wifi are all supplied but *food is the volunteers’ responsibility* (allow 40-60GBP/week). You will need to cover your own airfares and insurance. MMCS is a non-governmental organization existing for more than 30 years, working actively to promote awareness and appreciation of the rich marine life around Mauritius. Educating people to the need for marine conservation, our core objective is the protection of marine mammals and coral reefs. For more information and application forms on this project or our normal volunteer program please contact: Nina and Imogen via email: info@mmcs-ngo.org