Commit. Protect. Act.
ANIMAL CARE & SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT
INTERNSHIP
COSTA RICA
This internship is ideal if you’re looking to gain solid hands-on experience in animal care, zoology, ethology or wildlife center management, while discovering the day-to-day operations of an established sanctuary.
AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE IN THE DAILY LIFE OF A WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
For four months, you’ll join the team at Toucan Rescue Ranch in Costa Rica and take part in the daily care of resident animals that cannot be released back into the wild.
You’ll help with feeding, maintaining animal enclosures, observing behavior and creating enrichment activities that support their well-being.
WHY I RECOMMEND THIS INTERNSHIP
This internship gives you first-hand experience of the day-to-day operations of a real wildlife conservation center.
You’ll discover every aspect of wildlife care, from feeding and observation to enrichment, enclosure maintenance and monitoring the well-being of resident animals.
It’s an excellent opportunity to develop your observation skills, independence and hands-on experience while working with a wide variety of tropical species.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
During this internship, you’ll develop skills including:
🐒 Take part in daily care tailored to each species
🥗 Prepare and distribute food
🧹 Clean and maintain enclosures and living spaces
🌿 Create enrichment activities that support animal well-being
👀 Observe animal behavior and well-being
📋 Carry out daily monitoring rounds
🛠️ Help maintain and improve facilities
🤝 Work alongside experienced animal keepers
…and develop many other hands-on skills through your daily work in the field.
A comprehensive animal care experience
The program includes:
70% daily animal care and welfare
20% facility maintenance and enrichment
10% training, guidance and sanctuary life
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Everything you need to know before applying.
Location
San Isidro de Heredia Costa Rica
Language
English
Field of study
• Animal Care • Zoology
• Ethology • Biology
• Animal Management
Duration
4 months*
* Contact me to find out about upcoming internship dates.
Admission requirements
✓ Minimum age: 18
✓ Travel insurance covering Costa Rica
✓ Up-to-date tetanus vaccination
✓ Sufficient level of English
✓ Interest in animal care
✓ Good physical condition
✓ Team spirit
✓ Good observation skills
✓ Previous experience with animals is an advantage, but not required
Full requirements will be provided during the application process.
PROGRAM CONTRIBUTION
3 000 USD ≈ €2,570
for the full 4-month internship
What’s included
✓ Shared accommodation
✓ 3 meals per day
✓ Hands-on training
✓ Guidance from the Toucan Rescue Ranch team
✓ Access to common areas
✓ Participation in the sanctuary’s daily activities
What’s not included
✕ International flights
✕ Travel insurance
✕ Personal expenses
✕ Immigration fees, if applicable
✕ Activities outside the program
A portion of the program fee directly supports the center’s operations and animal care.