PUMA'S RESERVE

Code: 2e922dca-071b-11f0-a3ea-fa163ef8d720 Copied

Argentina Youth activities Youth activities Permanent

About the project

PUMA'S RESERVE

📝 Detailed information

🏢 About the local organisation

Our mission is to protect and preserve our environment through a non-profit organization that builds a strong bond between people and nature. We believe that this connection inspires compassion and a sense of responsibility towards our planet. The puma, our symbol, drives our efforts to raise awareness about its conservation status in Córdoba and throughout Argentina. As a crucial umbrella and keystone species, the puma's presence is essential for the health and diversity of its ecosystem.
We provide sanctuary and rehabilitation for animals rescued from trapping and the illegal exotic pet trade. Some animals, due to their injuries, find lifelong refuge at our reserve, while others are successfully released back into the wild. Our diverse residents include Black-chested Buzzard-eagles, Lesser Grisons, Black Howler Monkeys, Llamas, Coypus, peacocks, rabbits, hens, owls, ducks, and parrots.
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Calamuchita, approximately 90 km southwest of Córdoba city, our reserve is the starting point for our ambitious restoration project. After 20 years of working in harmony with nature, we are undertaking a transformative endeavor to heal areas affected by forest fires and urban development. Our goal is to reintroduce native flora and fauna, ensuring the continued relevance of our motto: "Protecting with the stealth of a puma."
We open our doors to ecotourism, recognizing the power of direct experience in fostering environmental stewardship. "We care for what we love, love what we know, and know what we are taught." We also offer year-round educational programs, including courses and workshops on large felines, birds of prey, snakes and arachnids, and the unique ecology of Córdoba's mountain forests.

💼 What the programme involves

Volunteers tasks include providing guided tours of the reserve to promote ecological awareness among tourists, conducting educational talks and workshops on local flora, fauna, and conservation practices (if Spanish is spoken), implementing exotic species control measures to protect native ecosystems, maintaining a native seed bank through the collection and selection of indigenous plant species, enhancing animal welfare through environmental enrichment activities within the reserve. Cultivating organic gardens to demonstrate sustainable agricultural practices. Practicing responsible animal handling techniques for the health and safety of wildlife. Assisting researchers in their studies of local wildlife and ecosystems. Monitoring wildlife populations and behavior using remote camera traps. Maintaining trails and interpretive signage for visitor safety and education. Performing regular cleaning and upkeep of the reserve grounds. Implementing effective waste management and recycling programs.

🏠 Accommodation on site

The volunteers have an onsite accommodation that can be private or shared.

🍲 Food

The organization provides vegetarian food.

📍 About the location

The reserve is located in a beautiful area about 90 km’s southwest of the city of Cordoba, looking towards to the Andes. This beautiful town has the privilege of combining two of the most characteristic components of the Córdoba landscape: beautiful white sand beaches, with crystalline rivers and a majestic lake.

🎒 Leisure activities

During summer, this town, surrounded by lakes and mountains, becomes a hotspots and it was extended to the side of a dam, where you can practice nautical sports by sailing and fishing silverside.

⚠️ Requirements

Applicants must be in good general mental and physical health to participate. Additionally, the following requirements apply:
Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse backgrounds.
Tolerance and respect for individual differences.
Ability to work effectively in both team and independent settings.
Proficiency in spoken and comprehension of Spanish.
Minimum age of 18; applicants under 18 must provide parental consent.
Proactive and self-motivated.
A genuine passion for animals and nature.
Proof of required vaccinations for your home country and Argentina, including tetanus.
Valid health insurance.
A clean bill of health, signed by a healthcare provider, confirming fitness for work.

🤝 Meeting point

Upon arrival in Córdoba, we will organize your transfer from the airport to your hostel accommodation until Monday. During your hostel stay, you will enjoy a city tour and a cultural orientation session, designed to familiarize you with local customs and provide essential information for your visit.
On Monday, a private transfer will take you to the town where you will meet your project's volunteer coordinator. The journey to the town is approximately 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, the coordinator will accompany you on a one-hour transfer to the project site in the hills.
This transportation plan ensures a seamless transition from your arrival in Córdoba to your final destination. We are committed to providing a comfortable and convenient journey, allowing you to focus on the enriching experience awaiting you at the volunteer project.