Location
The Wildlife Hospital is located at the foot of Mount Oros on the beautiful Island of Aegina, only 10 kilometers east of Aegina Town. Aegina (Greek: Αίγινα (Egina)) is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece in the Saronic Gulf, 17 miles (27 km) from Athens (1.5 hours by ferry). The Island is beautiful, fertile and verdant with a rich landscape of pine and olive trees, picturesque villages, fine beaches and interesting archaeological monuments such as the beautiful Temple of Aphaia, built in the 5th century BC, and considered one of the finest archaeological monuments on the Aegean coast. Aegina is also the land of pistachios. The island produces them since antiquity and offers a wide range of these tasty nuts.
About the project
The Wildlife Hospital began its activities in 1984 and today it is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in Greece and Southern Europe. The Wildlife Hospital treats 3000 to 4500 injured, poisoned or orphaned wild animals from all over Greece with the following aims:
- Treatment, rehabilitation and release of all species of wildlife indigenous to Greece
- Education and dessemination of information to the public on wildlife protection issues
- Protection of endangered species
- Research on threats to wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation (illegal shooting & trapping, poisoning & pollution, habitat degradation and destruction) and preventive action.
- Cooperation with public authorities, national and international NGO's with similar goals
Many rare and endangered species are treated every year: both species of Pelican, Eleonora Falcons, Lesser Kestrels, Imperial and Spotted Eagles, Griffon and Egyptian Vultures, Black and White Storks, Herons and Waders. The headquarters are on Aegina island; but the Wildlife Hospital operates also through a vast network of volunteers, collaborating organizations, first aid stations and departments covering the whole country.
The Wildlife Hospital is a member of the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC), a California based international scientific organization which provides rehabilitation centers with the most recent information and research results through congresses, seminars, literature production and on-line help.
The Hospital regularly conducts environmental education projects for schools, publishes a quarterly Journal and through regular use of the media informs the public about wildlife problems. Hundreds of young people from many countries have taken part in its activities in Aegina and all over the country, learning about wildlife and contributing to its protection and care.
As a volunteer you will have an unforgettable experience working with the animals. You will also work with local staff and volunteers from around the world. This will also be an opportunity to explore and experience the beauty of Greece on the Island of Aegina.
Volunteer work and contribution
Volunteers at the Wildlife Hospital actively take part in the necessary everyday care of the animals in rehabilitation and involve the following:
- Cleaning of outdoor and indoor areas
- Cleaning of the areas where the animals are treated
- Adapting cages for new animals
- Food preparation, feeding, changing water bowls
- Maintenance and construction work
- Aid in treatments
- Other special duties depending on experience gained during stay and individual preferences
Volunteers work 6 days per week from 8:00 to 14:00 and have one day off. Depending on the needs of the work, it may call for an extra 2-3 hours work some afternoons.
Please note that this kind of work doesn't suit everyone as much as they may love animals. Would you go into the raptor cages to change the water? Are you disgusted by having to cut up raw chicken? Will you be devastated for weeks by the sight of an injured animal? There are other tasks too, if you don't feel comfortable with certain tasks. However, if there is absolutely no way you could picture yourself doing the such basic duties, then volunteering at the Wildlife Hospital may not be for you.
Accommodation
Volunteers stay in a basic apartment near the Hospital with shared rooms and bunk-beds. The apartment can fit around 20 volunteers and has a common terrace that over looks the mountains and sea. Facilities include: toilet (with bucket flush), shower and communal kitchen.
Basic food provisions are provided for cooking, however you may wish to buy other food items or eat in a "Greek Taverna" from time to time.
Not just work...
As a volunteer you will have free time (see above) to explore the beautiful Island of Aegina. The best way to get around the Island is by rented car or motor bike (30 Euros per day). The Island has beautiful beaches with crystal blue water and traditional Greek villages with tavernas that serve local cuisine. Historical monuments also worth visiting are the ancient Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of Agios Nektarios. If you enjoy night life, there are lively bars in Aegina Town and Agia Marina (East coast). Volunteers at the hospital sometimes trek to the top of mount Oros and camp the night to enjoy the beautiful sunrise and stunning views. Athens is only a 1.5 hour ferry ride away if you wish to tour the city and its famous monuments, such as the Acropolis.
Minimum requirements
- Min age 18 - Max age 70
- Conversational English
- Good physical fitness
- Motivation to work with animals
- Able to work in harsh summer climate
- Full travel & medical insurance
- Immunizations (please consult your doctor)