Assisting in field research of the project M.E.E.R. La GomeraNEXT COURSE: 17 - 31 October 2010
THE COURSE IS ALREADY FULLY BOOKED!
The waters off La Gomera (Canary Islands) provide almost perfect conditions for cetacean field studies. Only a few miles off the shoreline the Atlantic Ocean reaches depths of 2000 m and more. It is predominantly a pelagic habitat, which is underlined by the presence of some purely pelagic species such as sperm and beaked whales. Bottlenose dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins and pilot whales are resident within the area. Comparable conditions we can find only in very few places around the world.
Due to the fact that there are several cetacean species abundant in the same habitat, we can study them comparatively. Whales and dolphins have never been hunted in the Canaries and therefore behave relatively unprejudiced towards vessels. Comparable conditions one can find only in few places in the world.
Science in practiceThe project M.E.E.R. La Gomera is conducting a study on the interactions between cetaceans and whale watching boats since many years. The participants of these 2-weeks practical courses will get an insight into the behavioural research conducted from whale watching boats operating off the island of La Gomera. In this area, 21 cetaceans species could be identified during the last years.
The course includes a full training program: the theory and practice of behavioural research will be learned and profound background information on whale watching will be given. Research experience that will be gained includes sighting data recording, behavioural sampling, photo identification and others.
Science applied in conservationMoreover, the research is embedded in conservation efforts aiming at the preservation and promotion of whale watching as a sustainable use of cetaceans and the establishment of a marine sanctuary in the waters off La Gomera. M.E.E.R. La Gomera was honoured in 2001 with the international environmental award "Tourismus und Umwelt", which is granted since 1987 by the German Association of Travel Agencies and Travel Operators (DRV). As was stated during the bestowal, the project "realises new ways of co-operation of research and tourism in an exemplary and innovative way".
Date & InfoNEXT DATE: 17 - 31 October 2010
Benefits
- close interaction with cetaceans
- direct contact to researchers
- full training program (working meetings, talks, film, etc.)
- professional project leader
- small, informal and relaxed groups (maximum 10 volunteers)
- direct support of conservation efforts
- contribution to research funding
- tourist quality accommodation
- the "most healthy climate" of the world
- spectacular environment
- The courses are fully accepted for the study of biology at the
following universities: Humboldt-Universität Berlin (Germany) &
Universität Wien (Austria).
Price15 days including the days of arrival and departure: EURO 899.-
THE COURSE IS ALREADY FULLY BOOKED!
Included in the price:
 | Accommodation in tourist quality apartments
| | Opening / Introduction to work procedures
| | 7 whale watching research trips including 1 day trip
| | Scientific supervision 3 working meetings
| | Written working materials
| | Advice about personal travel necessities and literature
| | All expenses concerning the boat, the research and the public work
| | Free entrance to all public events of M.E.E.R. La Gomera
| | Certificate of attendance of the course
| | Closing meeting
| | Donation to M.E.E.R. e.V.
| | One year membership M.E.E.R. e.V. |
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