Voluntarios en "Cumbres de Monterrey"

VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS (4-5) needed from 18 Jul - early Nov 2010 (must be able to stay for at least 1 month) for a study of the breeding ecology of the Maroon-fronted Parrot (Rhynchopsitta terrisi) at the 'Cumbres de Monterrey' National Park in northeast MEXICO. Research will focus on continuing a long-term monitoring project of the nesting success of this species, also conducing other activities as flock counts, nesting behavior, among others. The project is carried out by the 'Tecnologico de Monterrey' University (additional information [in spanish] at URL: http://uninet.mty.itesm.mx/1_8_1_1.htm). MFPA nests at cliffs slopes where accessibility to the nests is close to impossible, so duties includes daily nest cliffs watching from 9am-5pm from the cliff base, new nesting cliffs searching, behavioral observations, and data entry. Knowledge of Spanish is not required, applicants must like or have previous camping experiences, and have good physical condition to hike steep hills at pine-oak forests above 7500ft. Furthermore, volunteers should maintain a positive and energetic attitude despite long hours and hot or cold conditions. Work schedules will vary, but in general the field work lasts a week, and spending another week in Monterrey city. However, by Oct and through early Nov we carry out the intensive monitoring where we stay in the field for an uninterrupted month period. Assistants will mainly camp (and sometimes at cabins), will enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities, and if birdwatcher this is a great opportunity to add several site's specialities to the life lists (i.e. Crescent-chested, Golden-cheeked, and Colima Warblers, Crimson-collared Grosbeak, Rose-throated Becard, Black-capped Vireo, Spot-crowned Woodcreeper, just to name a few). In addition, all birds observations could be used for enhance the bird inventory of the National Park. Finally, the department carry out others projects at other locations in northeastern Mexico conducing birds monitoring and inventories, so the volunteers may choose to spend the parrot project's days-off joining the other project, or rather stay in Monterrey city. Food and housing will be provided. However, assistants will have to provide their own airfare to and from Monterrey, Mexico, as well as their personal necessities. To apply, please send cover letter detailing interests, resume, and list of 3 references to RENE VALDES (EM: ravp AT itesm.mx). Please state dates of availability. Applicants selection already started but will continue until positions are filled.