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If you want to work with animal conservation projects you might want to think about a gap year break that involves helping to conserve one of the planet's most maligned creatures - the shark (specifically, the tiger shark).
Films and stereotypes
Many of us are, unfortunately, most familiar with sharks from the TV and cinema. We're all probably well versed in the images of the hero or heroine wrestling with a marauding shark and even today, the legacy of the now ancient "Jaws" movies continues to play a part in popular culture.
Of course, sharks are one of the world's great predators, and occasionally there are tragic attacks on humans; however the fact that these typically make headline news around the globe indicates just how comparatively unusual such events are. What is a bigger problem is that shark populations are being put under intense pressure by humanity and our increasing exploitation of the sea, their natural habitat. Many aspects of shark behaviours are only poorly understood even today - and that is where opportunities may arise if you would like to work with animal conservation in a marine context.
Tiger shark conservation
One of the species that is currently puzzling is the tiger shark, and particularly those populations off of the coast of Africa. Here, population numbers are varying and the sharks appear to be migrating from areas they are traditionally associated with. The reasons for this are not understood (migrating prey? environmental pollution? changing sea temperatures?) and more work is needed - particularly in how fishery protection areas may or may not be helping conservation. So, if you like the thought of being able to get close up and 'personal' with these creatures, a break that involves work with animal projects in this area, may really appeal.
Conservation holidays
It is worth noting that the word 'holiday' here may not mean quite what you have experienced before when laying on a beach or mooching around the shops. Here, you'll be working hard to learn techniques such as:
• Safe sub-aqua practices when in and around sharks
• The tagging of selected sharks and the associated tracking and recording
• Noting their hunting grounds and sampling their local environments to check for environmental issues.
Yes, there will be 'time off' for you to visit other local sights and to interact with the local people, but the emphasis is on working and 'making a difference' to the knowledge base.
So, if you'd like to work with animal conservation projects in an absolutely unique environment, conservation work involving tiger sharks may possibly be for you.
Kathryn Noakes is the Sales Executive for Worldwide Experience, an online tour operator offering extended breaks on holidays where you can work with animal projects and other wildlife conservation holidays for adults.
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