Sri Lanka Sea Turtle Conservation

Discover Sri Lanka, a glittering jewel of an island nestled in the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean. Help in the conservation and protection of some of the most appealing and fascinating marine creatures found in existence- sea turtles. This is an incredible chance to combine experiencing one of the most enchanting parts of the world, an island that inspired the word 'serendipity' (which means the faculty of making happy and unexpected discoveries), with joining a conservation programme that is making a sincere and practical contribution to the fate of these charming, and sadly threatened marine animals.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience the mystery of the island of Sri Lanka
• Explore the coastal environment of this fascinating country
• Contribute to conservation efforts for a number of species of turtle

What Next? Apply Now!

WHAT DOES THE PROJECT DO?

You will be based at a new exciting and expanding sea turtle conservation and protection centre in Sri Lanka. Marine wildlife faces many challenges, one of the biggest being the unregulated use of marine habitats, which threatens many species, including five species of sea turtle, all highly endangered, that nest along the coastline of Sri Lanka. Having suffered massive overexploitation for eggs, meat and shells, the threats to these beautiful creatures can be attributed to a variety of sources; the extensive development of tourism, the unsustainable harvesting of turtle feeding grounds and the polluting and bleaching of the coral reefs, however the continued exploitation of both turtle meat and eggs throughout the country remains the single biggest threat: surveys have revealed that egg collection rates have been unsustainably high for at least the last 30 years.

Despite Sri Lanka being the first country in the world to instigate and establish a wildlife sanctuary, the turtle population has suffered a massive decline that has threatened its existence altogether. As a volunteer you will be working with teams protecting critical nesting sites.
 

WHAT WILL I BE DOING?

Introduction week
Your first week is designed to give you an opportunity to explore the history and culture of Sri Lanka, and of course Kandy, with visits to local sites of special interest such as nearby markets, sample the local cuisine, familiarise yourself with Sri Lankan customs and meet the local people, as well as hopefully learning some key phrases to help you get by.  Following this wonderful opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your new surroundings, your briefings for the volunteer work will begin along with language classes and cooking lessons throughout the week.

Work Schedule
Your day to day duties will be dependent upon the current focus of the project at the time of your visit but could typically involve turtle egg collection, scientific monitoring and recording, working within the hatchery, feeding and cleaning duties, releasing turtles back into the sea and educating visitors about the project. You could also get the opportunity to learn about marine flora and take part in organised beach clean-ups. Your days will be long but certainly rewarding, working 6am until 5pm, Monday to Friday.
 

What Next? Apply Now!

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I ARRIVE?

Upon arrival at Colombo Airport you will be greeted by a representative of Frontier-Sri Lanka and driven to your accommodation, where you will be based for the duration of your introduction week. Once acclimatised and settled into the Sri Lankan way of life after your introduction week, you will head to your accommodation near to the project site.

Please aim to arrive on the Sunday before your project begins and depart on the Saturday after your project concludes. If you decide to travel outside of these dates then you will be responsible for any associated costs.

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

Your accommodation throughout your placement, both during the introduction week and the work placement itself, will be with a local homestay. This is the perfect way for you to learn about the Sri Lankan culture, improve your language skills and experience the Sri Lankan way of life.

You will live with a carefully selected host with experience of working with volunteers. Your accommodation will be clean, secure and comfortable, and you will be sharing a room with fellow volunteers and will have access to basic facilities.

WHAT WILL I BE EATING?

Three meals a day are included in the programme and will be typical of Sri Lanka's cuisine, mainly consisting of boiled or steamed rice served with curry.  Curries in Sri Lanka are typically made with meat, fish, vegetable and even fruit, and are made using coconut milk.  A typical meal consists of a ‘main curry’, as well as several other curries made with vegetable and lentils and served with side dishes such as pickles and chutneys.

What Next? Apply Now!

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ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

During your free time why not explore some of the wonders that this incredible country has to offer? From ancient cities such as Anuradhapura, to tranquil beaches, or the Hill Country, where misty mornings adorn the idyllic landscape of pristine waterfalls and rolling tea plantations, Sri Lanka plays host to a huge variety of flora and fauna, including wild leopards. A range of National Parks and safari tours are available to choose from, not to mention a visit to watch the sun rise at The Worlds End!