About the project
The mission of Yotvata Hai-Bar (Wildlife Preserve) Nature Reserve is to establish reproduction groups for populations of wild animals that are mentioned in the Bible; but have disappeared from the landscape, as well as for other endangered desert animals. The reserve is dotted with Acacia trees and includes a variety of desert habitats: an Acacia forest, a salt marsh, and sand dunes. The reserve has three parts: a three-acre penned-in open area, where herds of herbivorous animals live in conditions similar to those in the wild; the Predators Centre, where reptiles, small desert animals, and large predators are on display; and the Desert Night Life Exhibition Hall, where night and day are reversed so that visitors to the reserve can observe nocturnal animals during their active hours. Long-term volunteers are needed to join the Israel Nature & Parks Authority (NPA) staff with its on-going conservation and animal care work at the Wildlife Preserve.
Orientation in Tel Aviv
A one day / night orientation will be held at the beginning of the project in Tel Aviv, together with other volunteers from GoEco projects. The orientation will include preparation lectures regarding Israel and the project, walking tour of old Tel Aviv and Jaffa and time to enjoy the beach, meet new friends and party or enjoy cultural venues. The orientation includes dorm accommodation at the Old Jaffa Hostel and dinner.
Volunteer work and contribution
Volunteers will work with the NPA staff at the Predators & Visitors centres. Duties include: feeding animals and cleaning habitats, maintenance work, observation and data collection, field work and constructing enrichment facilities from eco friendly materials.
Accommodation
International volunteers will stay in basic shared apartment next to the Hai-Bar. Apartment includes: rooms suited for 4 - 6 people, bunk beds, bathroom, shower, and fully equipped kitchen.
Not just work...
The overseas volunteer will have the opportunity to meet and to work with local volunteers. You will experience life on a preserve and get to know up close this starkly beautiful desert landscape, situated on the African-Syrian rift and directly on the migratory bird route. The international beach resort of Eilat is only 40 kilometers away, if you and other volunteers want some snorkeling or a bit of night life.
Minimum requirements
- Min age 18 - Max age 60
- Basic English or Hebrew
- Good physical fitness
- Motivation to work with animals
- Able to work in harsh desert climate
- Full travel & medical insurance
- Immunizations (please consult your doctor)