Internship or Volunteering in Japan: Sea Turtle Conservation in Okinawa

The subtropical island of Okinawa, located in southern Japan, is not only a popular travel destination with stunning beaches and rich culture but also a vital nesting site for Green Sea Turtles, Loggerhead Turtles, and Hawksbill Turtles. From April to September, you can actively contribute to the protection of these fascinating creatures as an intern or volunteer. You will be guided by a professional team of English- and Japanese-speaking supervisors from the organization. Your tasks include:

During the nesting season (April to July):
Beach patrols: During nightly patrols, you observe and document the behavior of mother turtles as they lay their eggs, including crawling, digging, nesting, and leaving the beach. Once a nest is found, you notify a nest technician who marks and measures it. If needed, you assist in relocating nests to protect them from risks like flooding or planned construction near the beach. You also remove debris, including abandoned fishing nets, to create optimal nesting conditions.

Nest protection: Securing nests from predators such as dogs and crabs, installing cameras for monitoring, and ensuring hatchlings reach the sea safely.
Rescue and research: Transporting injured turtles for treatment and participating in necropsies of deceased turtles to analyze causes of death.

During the hatching season (August and September):
Assisting with the hatching of baby turtles and analyzing nests.

Year-round:
Organizing and conducting beach cleanups (twice a month with 30–100 volunteers).
Environmental education in schools and for groups, creating educational materials.
Planning events such as fun runs, turtle festivals, and art exhibitions.
Data analysis, international data exchanges, and supporting the development of an interactive online map for turtle identification.
Marketing, fundraising, and administrative tasks.
Participating in children’s and youth camps (spring, summer, and winter).

Arrival and the first day of accommodation are always on Fridays, and the project starts on the following Monday. If needed, you can book an airport transfer from Naha Airport.