Monthly newsletter - April 2024
Internship opportunities, data surge and promo code for camera traps!
Seeking bright minds and passionate volunteers
Ingwe Leopard Research, in collaboration with Transfrontier Africa's research team, is offering internship opportunities for students passionate about conservation. We are looking for five dedicated individuals to tackle crucial research projects:
BSc Students:
Investigate how environmental characteristics influence leopard distribution (BSc 1).
Analyze the impact of human disturbance on leopard populations (BSc 2).
Explore how prey occupancy affects leopard distribution using game count data (BSc 3).
MSc Students:
Combine the findings of the BSc projects to create a comprehensive understanding of leopard distribution across the study area (MSc 1).
Examine human-leopard interactions and coexistence challenges in wildlife estates using a socio-ecological study (MSc 2).
These internships offer a unique opportunity to:
Contribute to impactful research published and presented to the wider community.
Gain valuable experience under the guidance of seasoned conservationists.
Become a professional in using AI for conservation on a leading platform.
Calling All Conservation Enthusiasts!
We also have a limited number of volunteer positions available! Join our team and gain firsthand experience in:
Citizen science – Be a part of South Africa's largest carnivore-focused citizen science project.
Using AI for conservation – Learn valuable skills on a widely used platform.
Participating in a variety of research activities alongside other dedicated volunteers.
Volunteer positions require a 3-month minimum commitment to ensure proper training and development. With only 12 spots available per year, apply now!
Spread the Word and Share the Opportunity!
We want to give as many students as possible the chance to launch their conservation careers. Please share this newsletter with anyone who might be interested.
Data keeps flowing
The leopard sightings data continues to grow at an impressive pace! This month, I received a 363 camera trap and sighting images from 17 areas (excluding the Kruger National Park). Since the beginning of the project, 5031 unique leopard encounters were recorded with 3275 in 2023 and 915 in 2024. This surge in data allows us to build a more comprehensive picture of leopard populations.
I am also thrilled to welcome AfriCam as a new partner! Their live cameras provide incredible opportunities to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Two of AfriCam's dedicated subscribers are now ambassadors for Ingwe Leopard Research, gathering valuable data from the live feeds. Be sure to check out their live cameras!
Bridge the research gap – help survey non-protected areas!
While most leopard research in South Africa focuses on protected areas, a significant portion of suitable leopard habitat lies outside these boundaries. To understand leopard movement and distribution more fully, I urgently need your help to conduct a camera trap survey in these non-protected areas.
Here's How You Can Directly Contribute:
Donate to sponsor a camera trap (approximately USD 266).
Contribute to camera trap rental costs (USD 77).
Every contribution brings us closer to closing the knowledge gap and ensuring a future for leopards outside protected areas.
Special Offer!
Purchase a camera trap from Camera Traps CC using the promo code "INGWE" and receive a 7.5% discount. Camera Traps CC will then donate the discount amount directly to Ingwe Leopard Research! Contact chris@cameratraps.co.za for more information. You might get to discover leopard cubs on your camera as did Riaan Cloete in Lissataba! See below.
They have already sponsored 6 camera traps: Royal Malewane Foundation, AfriCam, Idea Wild, anonymous donor.
Together, let’s make a difference! Contact me at marine@ontrackfoundation.org to get involved.