Volunteering in the Seychelles – Turtle Conservation on North Island

North Island is located at the heart of the Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands. Snow-white sandy beaches, turquoise seas and bizarre granite formations shape the landscape. Experts call islands "laboratories for evolution", which explains why there are so many species on the isolated Seychelles. It wasn’t always like this though.

Until the 70s, the island was used for intensive coconut plantations and native flora and fauna was under pressure from invasive species.

The purpose of the project is to use renaturation measures to restore the original ecosystem of the island. The work of reintroducing native species is already bearing fruit: Endangered Seychelles white-eye and Seychelles giant tortoise populations have recovered to sustainable levels.

The responsibilities of volunteers on this project will vary depending on what is required to implement the necessary conservation measures. You will work in a team of experienced researchers devoted to protecting this area of natural beauty. Your work will focus on recording sea turtle populations. You will survey the beach on foot at regular intervals to monitor the growth of baby turtles and the population levels of the various endangered species. You will also be responsible for photographing the entire coral reef.

Together with other volunteers you will live near the employee village at the centre of the island. Each house has two twin bedrooms (mixed-gender), a shared bathroom and a lounge. Three daily meals are provided in the staff canteen. The beach is reserved for project workers and has watersports equipment freely available. Your day off during the week is an opportunity to visit the main island of Mahé. The hour-long ferry trip is free for project workers.