Para La Tierra’s three-week intensive Methods in Primatology Field Course will give you the opportunity to experience the life and work of a primatologist while exploring unbeaten tracks in several distinct neotropical habitats.

You will practice real-world biological fieldwork techniques including VHF telemetry, camera trapping and blow darting, and have the chance to design and carry out your own primate mini project. You will gain a deep understanding of field techniques and how they can be applied to different studies, the design of a successful field project and important aspects of primate conservation.

The course takes place across two locations and three habitats in the heart of Paraguay, one of South America's least explored countries. Being developed and coordinated by National Geographic Explorer and primatologist Dr. Rebecca Smith, and the multi-international award-winning team at Para La Tierra, this crash-course in primatology methods is perfect for monkey loving adventurers.

Part 1: Introduction and background

Location: Nueva Gambach, San Rafael

• Introduction to Para La Tierra

• Introduction to new world primates and primates of Paraguay

• Introduction to the hooded capuchin project

• Study design in primatology

• Conservation and conservation issues

• Primate rehabilitation and the pet trade

• Effective communication in the sciences

• Inter-observer reliability tests

Part 2: Hooded capuchin monkey studies and conservation in Paraguay

Location: Nueva Gambach, San Rafael

• Vocalisation and ID training

• GPS and VHF telemetry training

• Blowgun training

• Camera trap deployment

• Primate home range studies

• Capuchin monkey tracking and data collection

• Exploration of the Atlantic Forest in San Rafael

• Visit of the reforestation project and rural and indigenous schools

Part 3: Urban howler monkey studies and your own primate mini study

Location: Pilar, Ñeembucú

• Howler monkey tracking

• Human wildlife conflict

• Primate feeding ecology

• Non-invasive biological sample collection: faecal and urine sampling training

• Habitat assessment

• Distance sampling

• Environmental education for conservation

• Introduction to the PLT museum

• Your own mini project with data collection, analysis and poster presentation

Costs

$2,595, or $2,295 if you book before 30 June 2024

A non-refundable deposit of $300 is required immediately following acceptance into the program. This secures your place on the course.

Costs include:

• Bed in a shared dorm

• Three meals a day plus a traditional Paraguayan afternoon snack

• Unlimited tea, coffee, yerba and juice

• All course instruction

• Access to all necessary scientific and educational equipment

• Transportation to and from all field sites

• Certificate of distinction

• Professional reference

• Detailed transcript of skills obtained

Costs do NOT include:

• International airfare

• Any accommodation costs prior to the course start date

• Travel insurance and vaccinations

Dates

Provisional course dates: October 2024

Arrival date in Asunción: at least one day before start of the course

Application deadline: 14 August 2024

cancellation policy

Course fees must be received by the fees due date. If a participant cancels after this deadline, Para La Tierra will refund 40% of the total tuition fee up to 2 weeks prior to the course start date. After this time no refund is possible.

obtaining credits

Para La Tierra is a private institution and is unable to offer university course credits. However, it is likely that you can receive credit through your own university by way of an ‘independent study’. This must be arranged with your professor or adviser prior to arriving in Paraguay. You will be provided with transcripts of your work in Paraguay if required for obtaining independent study credits.

APPLICATIONs

Send an application, including your CV/resume and a cover letter, to rebecca@paralatierra.org or complete the application form below.