RESEARCH ASSISTANTS (1-2) needed for ongoing behavioral research of
Lance-tailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata) social behavior in Panama,
17 Mar - 8 May 2004. This work involves long hours, hot and humid
conditions, eccentric landowners, plenty of snakes and biting insects,
and some of the most fascinating birds you'll ever see. The research
investigates the social system and courtship behavior of these birds.
Males form long-term partnerships with other males to court females, and
together partners "dance" for prospective mates. We're investigating
the genetic and social causes and consequences of this unusual mating
system. Research will be conducted in one population of manakins on
Isla Boca Brava in western Panama. Work will consist of extensive
observation of color-banded birds, nest-searching, nest-monitoring,
banding and bleeding nestlings, and mistnetting. Assistants will be
expected to work from 7am - 6pm six days a week, with trips into town
for email and supplies every two weeks. Assistants should be
comfortable working alone in a tropical forest, highly motivated,
physically fit, have a healthy sense of humor, and be able to live
happily and considerately in close quarters with co-workers. Experience
reading color bands on small, quick birds is strongly preferred.
Experience in nest-searching and mistnetting is also favored. Spanish
ability is a plus but not required. This is a volunteer position and
includes no salary but the project will pay for food, housing, and up to
$200 toward airfare for assistants. For more information or to apply,
please email a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three
references to EMILY DuVAL (EM: ehduval@...), UC
Berkeley, 3101 VLSB, Berkeley, CA 94720. Applications are currently
under consideration and will be accepted until the position is filled.

 

 

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VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANT NEEDED from early May-through late Jul. Are
you looking to gain experience in bird-banding, telemetry, resighting
and some nest monitoring? I'm looking for a motivated student or
interested volunteer to help me track and monitor the endangered
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher in lovely central Arizona. I can promise
some days of fighting tamarisk, but I can also promise some great
experience working with a highly motivated and super fun group of field
biologists in the beautiful Sonoran Desert. I will provide all gear
including binoculars, camping and field equipment. You can gain some
great experience in tracking birds, resighting our color-banded birds,
banding, and doing a bit of nest finding and monitoring. Also, I will
provide you with experience in GIS and Arcview projects, and learning
databases especially Access. We work 10 days on 4 days off, to give you
plenty of time to explore the great birding areas throughout Arizona. A
stipend may be provided depending on funding. No experience necessary
just a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn! Starting and
ending time is negotiable. Please submit a cover letter explaining your
interest in the project and a CV or resume with at least 3 references.
Position is open until a suitable candidate is found. Email applications
are preferred but not required. If you have questions don't hesitate to
call or email: SUZANNE CARDINAL (EM: suzanne.cardinal@...). USGS
Colorado Plateau Field Station, Northern Arizona University, Box 5614,
Flagstaff, AZ 86011. (PH: 928-523-7373).