Elephant protection project in Sri Lanka

About the elephant protection project

The project has been in existence for over 20 years and has always been committed to sustainable wildlife conservation, particularly the protection of elephants. Through a combination of field research, nature conservation and cooperation with the local population, the aim is to achieve long-term protection and peaceful coexistence between wild animals and humans.

Your tasks in the project

The work in the elephant project is diverse and you will take on various tasks. You will accompany the team on jeep tours through the area, where you will take measurements, collect data and observe and document the elephants' behavior. You will also carry out minor maintenance work on the grounds, such as repairing fences.

There are also visits to the surrounding villages on some days. The main purpose of these visits is to talk to the villagers about their problems with the elephants. You also teach the children in the local schools about species conservation and environmental protection.

Your daily routine in the project

You will usually work from Monday to Friday. Your day starts at 9:00 a.m. when you and the other volunteers are driven to the site in a jeep. Depending on the daily schedule, you will take measurements and observe animals. From noon to 4:00 p.m., there is usually a lunch break with all team members at the camp. From 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., you will be back on the grounds to identify elephants or go on safari and collect data on their behavior. After this tour, you will return to the camp around 7:00 p.m. There, you will eat together and clean the equipment. Afterwards, you can relax or, in some cases, return to the field to observe nocturnal animals. Weekends are usually free.