Predator Ecology and Monitoring Project – South Africa

This project focuses on the ecology, distribution, and population dynamics of large carnivores and mesocarnivores within a bushveld ecosystem in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

The reserve supports a regionally important population of leopards, as well as a healthy population of free-roaming cheetahs, alongside other key predator species including brown hyena and spotted hyena. The area is also home to a variety of mesocarnivores such as caracal, serval, and African wildcat. Together, these species form part of a broader landscape-level population, making this an ideal setting for applied ecological research.

Students will contribute to ongoing monitoring efforts using a combination of:

• Camera trap surveys for population assessment and individual identification
• Data processing, calculation, and analysis of collected datasets
• Spatial data collection and mapping to understand distribution patterns

This project provides insight into predator-prey dynamics, interspecific interactions, and habitat utilisation, while also highlighting the challenges of conserving wide-ranging carnivores in a dynamic landscape.

Students will gain hands-on experience in field-based research methods, data handling, and ecological analysis, contributing to real-world conservation research.

Internship Duration

The minimum duration is 2 months.

Conservation Fees and Logistics

Please note that a monthly conservation fee applies, which includes:

• Support for ongoing conservation initiatives
• Shared accommodation within the reserve in a fenced research camp
• Transport (Polokwane airport pick-up/drop-off and fortnightly town trips)