UMPhafa- Colchester Zoo

UmPhafa Reserve is owned and run by Colchester Zoo’s charity, Action for Wild, and was established in 2004 when a number of cattle farms where purchased with the intention of creating a 6000ha conservation area exclusively for the research of African flora and fauna and as a centre for environmental education. Interns on UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve will have a valuable time by playing a crucial role in the operation of the reserve through helping to collect vital data necessary to make key management decisions. They will have the satisfaction of developing the necessary skills required to make in-roads into the field of conservation, whilst working closely with large animals and knowing that their contribution is having a direct influence to the wellbeing of the fauna on the Reserve.

This is an opportunity to gain creditable work experience in the field and shadow qualified staff members on a wide range of aspects involved in the running of a reserve. Days will be varied with duties including behavioural observations on game species which often involves stalking species such as rhino and giraffe through the bush at close quarters. They will also be aid with the other current research projects such as small mammal trapping; setting up and checking carnivore tracking stations; and camera trapping of elusive nocturnal species providing an exceptional chance to learn crucial survey techniques as well as gaining a greater appreciation of African animals and habitats. Seasonal work includes game releases and capture.