Turtle Conservation Project

Project Summary

Encased by the surrounding Pacific Ocean, the conservation of turtles takes place in the Azuero region of Panama. This project seeks volunteers who want to protect the native habitat of the sea turtles and ensure their safety and well being. This location is where the turtles come to lay their eggs, and it is often highly threatened. Much of the area has turned into a dry coastal forest. There is also the problem of poaching from the locals. The results of these issues and others have led to a threatened species and habitat. Your role as a volunteer will be to protect the turtles and their environment.

Volunteers will patrol the beach and collect eggs, and later hatch them at a nursery. This process ensures the turtles are then later release to the sea. The conservation lacks funds and manpower and greatly appreciates the efforts of volunteers. Your efforts as a volunteer may ensure the future of these wonderful creatures.

Skill/Qualification

There are no skills required to volunteer in the project. You should however be physically fit as the work can get physically demanding. If you understand Spanish, you’ll be able to communicate with the locals and work more effectively, however knowledge of Spanish isn’t a must. You must also adapt to the heat and humidity of the region. There will also be mosquitos and sand flies.

Volunteer's Responsibilities

You’ll perform such duties like regular night patrols to check the eggs and turtles coming offshore to hatch. You’ll work in the hatcheries and collect eggs and rescue turtles. Typical night patrols run from 8 pm to 8 am. Volunteers will only venture out in groups and never go alone. You’ll also take carapace and nest-dimension measurements and tag the rear flippers of the turtles.

Project Location

The project is located in Cambutal in the province of Los Santos, in Azuero Peninsula. Cambutal is located at the southernmost point of Panama and the Azuero Peninsula in the province of Los Santos. The drive from Panama City takes approximately five to six hours. The region is still very pristine and is known for its beaches. During weekends, volunteers can spend their weekend relaxing on the beach and eating at one of the community’s two restaurants. Cambutal is located close to Tonosi, a mid-sized town where you can find internet cafes, stores, and various restaurants should volunteers want to take a short trip out of their communities to explore. Volunteers are also encouraged to hop on a morning bus that will take them to Las Tablas, the capital of the Los Santos province. A small, traditional city, Las Tablas offers a wealth of things to do and see. Volunteers can attend parades, watch cultural dances and festivals, and buy hand-made arts and crafts. Located no more than 2 hours from either site, Las Tablas has internet, grocery and clothing stores, restaurants, and ATMs.

In general, Panama has a great many opportunities for you to explore. There are thousands of plant and bird species in Panama to observe. Panama City is close to many of our projects and volunteers are encouraged to take a short trip and experience the city. Panama City is the capital and the largest city and is full of history and urban splendors. For those working in projects in Azuero there are awesome sights to see on the Azuero Peninsula. There is Artisan fairs in Las Tablas and many festivals in Herrera. Panama is full of delightful beaches for volunteers to explore and relax during their free time.