APPLICATION FORM
GoEco's Facebook Community
Code
GoEco19
Location
Island of Utila, Honduras.
About the project
Volunteers are needed to assist with the conservation and research of the endangered lizard - Utila Spiny-tailed Iguana on the beautiful island of Utila. The Utila-iguana is a big, tree living black iguana. This rare endemic reptile lives in the mangroves and nests on the beaches of Utila, an island in front of the Caribbean north coast of Honduras. The Utila Iguana has become emblematic for the conservation of the important mangrove habitat, the ecological significance and endangered status of which are often underestimated compared to rainforest and coral reefs. In addition to the preservation of the Utila Iguana and its critical mangrove habitat, other core goals of this project include sustainable development of the island of Utila (a popular destination for divers), as well as the creation of environmental awareness among the local inhabitants by providing information and environmental education. As a volunteer on this project, you will assist with the practical conservation of an endemic species and learn scientific or ecological working methods, under professional guidance. You will also live and work with people from around the world in a unique natural environment.
Animals in focus
| English name |
Scientific name |
| Utila spiny-tailed iguana |
Ctenosaura bakeri |
Projects dates
All year (it is well advised to book 6 months in advance).
Minimum Stay
1 month.
Number of participants
Max – 10 people.
Minimum Requirements
• Above 18
• Conversational English
• Strong motivation
• Keen interest in reptile and nature conservation
• Endurance for work in tropical heat
Volunteer tasks and contribution
As a volunteer in this project, you will participate in daily activities, such as: feeding the iguanas and watching over there general welfare, station maintenance, gardening, go out in the field for scientific programs, giving guided tours around our visitor center and cages, working for the community, among much others.
People from other lines of work are also needed. For example: Carpentry (e.g. Renovation of the research station, cages, etc…), Mechanic (e.g. maintaining generators, installing 220V outlets, etc…), Media (e.g. making flyers, promotions, writing tourist information, etc…), Teaching (e.g. environmental education in schools).
Accommodation
Volunteers will stay at the research station. The station has 10 beds in 4 shared rooms, kitchen, two bath rooms, shower, gas, electricity, drinking water and bikes.
Not just work...
Utila is a laid back beautiful island situated in the Caribbean Sea and has gained an almost legendary status among back packers in Central America. During your stay you can accompany tours conducted by the research station to other parts of the Island. A walk to Island's the beautiful beaches for swimming and snorkeling can usually be enjoyed. After work you can enjoy the local bars and restaurants on the Island or just chill out at the research station with the other volunteers and staff.
Cost
| First month |
2 months |
3 months |
Each additional month |
| €340 |
€490 |
€640 |
€100 |
Price includes
• GoEco's administration fee
• Accommodation at research station
• Training and volunteer work
• Research trips on the Island
• Project donation
You should take in to account
• Flights and transport to the project and back
• Food (around 40 Euros a week)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, bar, telephone etc…)
How do I Register?
Stage 1: If you would like to join this project, please complete the application form and submit it to GoEco.
Stage 2: Once we receive your application form, GoEco will evaluate your suitability for the project that you have chosen. At the same time, we will check availability of dates. (When completing your registration form, it is advisable to indicate a second and third choice in case your first choice is fully booked or the dates wanted are not available). Once GoEco receives confirmation of your acceptance to the project, we will notify you immediately by e-mail.
Stage 3: Once you have been accepted on a project and we have answered any additional queries that you may have, you will be asked to send a deposit of €190 in order to reserve your place within 7 days. This deposit is non-refundable.
Stage 4: After receiving your deposit, GoEco will send you a Disclaimer
Form and a Declaration form as well as a file containing all the relevant information about the project, including recommended ways to reach the site. You should return the two forms, duly signed, by mail to our office. Only upon the receipt of these forms, will we be able to complete the registration process.
Stage 5: The balance of the project fee must be paid to the project manager upon arrival.
General note: It is important for you to know that during the registration process and the duration of the project, the GoEco team is always on hand to answer your questions and offer any assistance needed.
