Jamaican Bird Communities Within Agro-forestry Systems to Climate Gradients

VOLUNTEER TROPICAL FIELD ASSISTANTS-The Response of Jamaican Bird Communities Within Agro-forestry Systems to Climate Gradients. Work Location: Coffee farms and forests in the south-eastern Blue Mountains, Jamaica W.I. SUMMARY: Two positions for 40+ hours per week having an anticipated start date of 15 Jan 2010 and will continue till mid-Jun. This is not a paid position, but air fare to and from Jamaica and accommodation and meals are provided. We are seeking two individuals to work 4-5 months. This is a Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center research project under the supervision of Dr. Peter Marra with Herlitz Davis, a Graduate student leading the project in the field. The research will focus on the capacity of coffee agroforestry systems to act as buffers for migrant and resident birds along a rainfall gradient as well as provide alternative income for farmers. The species of interest in the study are American redstarts (Setophaga ruticilla), Black-throated blue warbler (Dendroica caerulescens), and Black whiskered vireos (Vireo altiloquus). However, we will be banding all other migrant and some resident species. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to the following. **80-90% of work consists of mist netting, marking, and territory monitoring of focal species; **Must be able to safely navigate rugged terrain; **General habitat assessment and arthropod and farmer surveys; **Willing and able to work alone for long irregular hours and during inclement weather; **Ability to work and live with others in bunk-style housing; **Work schedule may require weekend work but will provide agreed time-off; **Computer entry of banding and other field data. Other duties may be assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, individuals must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required on this project. Applicants must carry a valid Driver's License and be eligible to operate a company vehicle under company policy guidelines. Have six months to one year related experience and/or training; the competitive applicants will have experience netting, banding, and re-sighting small active color-marked birds. Experience collecting foraging behavioral data is a plus, but is not required. APPLICATION PROCESS: A cover letter, résumé, and contact information for 3 references should be submitted (by email) to HERLITZ DAVIS (EM: davisha AT si.edu). Review of applications will continue until position is filled. Application deadline is 30 Nov 2009.