Courses » Discover Conservation

What is it about? A taste of living and working in one of South Africa’s private nature reserves, and a visit to a National Park.

Where? Mostly on Craig Doone, with visits to neighbouring reserves.

How long? Twelve days. It starts on a Monday morning and ends on a Friday afternoon.

And the cost? South African citizens pay R3500 per week. International visitors pay R3500 per week. The fee includes all meals, reserve entrance fees, transport, tuition, and course materials. However, it excludes weekend activities and transport.

Who should attend? You need to be aged 18 years and above. (If you are younger than 18, a parent or guardian must also attend).

What should I bring? See also the kit list we give here.
 
What will the course cover?

  • African cultures and the conservation history of South Africa
  • Identification, evolution, and ecology of plants, mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians
  • Mammal behaviour and social organization
  • The art of wildlife tracking, dung and sign identification and interpretation
  • Basic ecology: Interactions and interrelationships in nature using local field examples
  • Alien plant control and management, soil erosion control and management
  • The Cape floral kingdom and biomes of South Africa, including plant biogeography, diversity, and endemism
  • Nature drives to a National Park and various private ‘big five’ game reserves
  • A visit to the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary in Shamwari Game Reserve
 
Dr. W.T. Vos
Mobile: +27 (0)84 313 3817  E-mail: info@conservationacademy.co.za