Vegetation Project – Unpaid Internship in South Africa

WildComm Research Stations is a conservation organisation based in South Africa, dedicated to hands-on research and training for the next generation of conservationists. Located within a private reserve—home to two of the Big Five, rich birdlife, and diverse vegetation with 380 tree species recorded on-site—we provide interns with meaningful opportunities to contribute to long-term ecological monitoring and conservation management.

Internship Overview

This internship offers an immersive experience in vegetation and habitat assessment, with a focus on tree surveys, phenology, and habitat modelling. Interns will contribute to building a comprehensive understanding of the reserve’s vegetation communities and their importance for wildlife.

Interns will:

• Conduct ground surveys at over 100 randomly generated quadrants
• Measure tree species abundance, canopy cover, canopy height, ground cover, and geology
• Analyse seasonal phenological changes in leaves, fruits, and seeds for key tree species
• Assist in classifying vegetation communities and creating high-resolution habitat maps
• Contribute to habitat modelling projects that support land-use analysis and conservation planning

Who Should Apply?

• This opportunity is ideal for students or graduates in ecology, botany, environmental science, forestry, or related fields.
• No prior experience is required, though an interest in vegetation ecology is essential
• Applicants should be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• A reasonable level of fitness is needed, as fieldwork is conducted entirely on foot

Duration

Flexible | We recommend a commitment of 2–4 months to gain meaningful skills in vegetation monitoring and habitat modelling.

Conservation Fee

As you’ll be living on a wildlife reserve, part of your fee contributes directly to the protection of the land and the species it supports.

What’s Included in the Fee:

• Accommodation on the reserve
• Transport: Louis Trichardt pick-up/drop-off
• Biweekly town trips for supplies

Join WildComm Research Stations and contribute to long-term habitat monitoring while gaining valuable field skills!