As the popularity of dolphin-watching trips soars, it is becoming increasingly vital to monitor the effects that this increased human presence is having on cetacean populations, and this project is working to do just that.
The research team on the Mauritius Dolphin Conservation Project work in Tamarin Bay, off the coast of Mauritius, which is currently home to around 60 bottlenose dolphins and 500 spinner dolphins. Sadly, these small populations appear to be in decline. There is almost no legislation protecting these animals, and little or no control of tourist boats in terms of how close they can go to the animals or for how long.
The aim of the project is to study the impact that this level of intrusion is having on the dolphins, in terms of their movements, population size and behaviour. Environmental data is also collected, and other cetacean sightings, for example of humpback and sperm whales which are also found in the area, are also recorded.
Conservation In Action
This project has amazing conservation value - the findings of the research team are so desperately needed they are being almost directly translated into new legislation to protect the dolphin populations and prevent their numbers from declining any further, and you can be a part of it. The project also studies sperm whales and humpback whales, pilot whales, melon headed dolphins and turtles.
Work With The Wildlife
The project is the ideal option for anyone wanting a career in marine biology. Working as part of the small research team you will be directly involved in boat-based study for around three days a week, as well as detailed analysis of data when in the office. Research work includes:
- photographing individual dolphins for identification
- tracking pod movements and mapping habitat use
- population estimates
- data analysis of information gained from boat-study
- cataloguing individual animals.
Factbox
Costs and Duration: 2-12 weeks, from £2290 for 2 weeks to £5220 for 12 weeks including international return flights from London,UK, transfers, meals, accommodation, all project related costs and support.
Accommodation: Sharing with the other researchers in a small home where the office is also based.
Group size: Maximum of six students.
Time of year: Throughout the year including Christmas. Seasonal variations in work based on dolphin movements.
Person specification: If you're passionate about research work and have a scientific background, this is the ideal project for you.
