About the project
GoEco and the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo (JBZ) would like to invite international volunteers to come to Jerusalem and take part in this exciting project for the care of unique animals and reintroduction of endangered species in Israel.
Established in 1928, The JBZ, in its new location on the outskirts of Jerusalem, stretches across an area of 25 hectares (62 acres) in a beautiful valley surrounded by green hills. The JBZ is a non-profit organization and houses a large variety of animals from around the world, while its main focus is animals mentioned in the Bible. The majority of these animals became locally extinct in the Middle East, mostly in the twentieth century (e.g. bears, lions, Mesopotamian fallow deer, Arabian oryx, cheetah and the Nile crocodile).The JBZ coordinates a number of unique projects that involve preserving rare species whose origins are in the Land of Israel and, where possible, returning them to the wild [e.g. fallow deer (Dama mesopotamica),sand cats (Felis margarita), Negev tortoise (Testudo weneri)].
As a volunteer on this project you will gain the opportunity to work with some of these fascinating species, while gaining practical animal care experience under the guidance of experts in their field. Volunteers will live together at an excellent guest house near the zoo and will have free time to explore the extraordinary sites of Jerusalem and experience its rich cultural diversity and unique atmosphere.
Orientation in Tel Aviv
A two 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 ample 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 special Friday night dinner.
Volunteer work and contribution
The volunteers' work and duties will be organized in regular shifts every day from 07:00 - 15:00 (this may change), except Fridays & Saturdays. You will be expected to partake equally in all the tasks and projects at the zoo. You may contribute more if needed. The volunteer work is divided into two main parts:
Part 1: Daily animal care
As a volunteer, you will be assigned to a specific animal caretaker for 4 days and will assist him/her with one of the following sections: Bird Section, Australian Section, Herbivore Section or Children's Zoo (e.g. wild sheep, wild goats, hares, guinea pigs, prairie dogs, voles etc...). In your application form you may prioritize which animal sections you prefer to work with, although no guarantees can be made. Work with animals may include: cleaning outdoor and indoor facilities, food administration, maintenance, assisting during veterinary treatment, etc.
Part 2: Special projects
As a volunteer you will partake in the creation of enrichment facilities for animals and special maintenance projects in animal enclosures (such as landscape projects and rock clearances for the benefit of the animals).
Accommodation
Volunteers will stay at the Judean Guest House (1km from the zoo). The rooms are comfortable, spacious and suited for 2 people. Each room has air-conditioning, hot shower, bathroom, and balcony with a view of the Jerusalem hills. Volunteers will be provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Judean Guest House. The guest house has a swimming pool, gym, washing machine, cafeteria and other facilities for your convenience.
Not just work...
During your free time you can visit the extraordinary sites in Jerusalem. The accommodation is within easy reach of the many interesting sites and venues in and around the city, including museums, renown holy sites, restaurants, nature parks, street markets and of course the old city, established as one of the oldest human settlements in the world. During the night it is possible to go out and enjoy various night life spots in the city or just chill out at the guest house.
Minimum requirements
- Min age 18 - Max age 60
- Basic English or Hebrew
- Good physical fitness
- Motivation to work with animals
- Able to work in hot climate
- Full travel & medical insurance
- Immunizations (please consult your doctor)