Sea Turtle Nesting Season Volunteering Program 2026

Program Overview

Volunteering with Project Biodiversity on Sal Island offers a unique opportunity to play a vital role in the protection of one of the world’s most important loggerhead turtle nesting populations. This program combines hands-on conservation work, scientific research, community outreach, and environmental education to safeguard marine and coastal biodiversity. Volunteers will gain invaluable field experience while contributing directly to meaningful conservation outcomes.

Nesting Season (June – October)

During the nesting season, adult loggerhead turtles arrive on Sal Island’s beaches to lay their eggs. Volunteers:

• Patrol 25 km of nesting beaches at night to prevent poaching and protect nesting females.
• Collect biometric data and assist with tagging for research.
• Relocate at-risk nests and eggs to hatcheries for safe incubation.
• Live in a beachside field camp, sharing tents and meals, with weekly rest days in Santa Maria.
• Experience basic but rewarding living conditions that foster teamwork and a close connection to nature.

Nesting Season Volunteers: Stay at a beachside camp six days a week with basic facilities (toilets, shaded areas, and limited water and electricity from generators). On the seventh day off, volunteers rest in Santa Maria at a shared apartment.

Meals are provided at the camp by a cook. On their day off in Santa Maria, volunteers can either prepare their own meals at the apartment or eat out at local restaurants.

Interested volunteers can apply for the 2026 Turtle Season Nesting Program and secure their spot for an unforgettable conservation experience on Sal Island.