The Toucan Rescue Ranch in Costa Rica is located in the area of San Isidro, Heredia, it is a wildlife sanctuary, rescue, rehabilitation and release center.

Established in 2004 by Leslie Howle and Jorge Murillo initially only as a rescue center for toucans and other birds, it quickly expanded to care for other injured, confiscated and sick wildlife animals (sloths, monkeys, macaws, owls, among others). Today, the Toucan Rescue Ranch has a captive breeding program for Costa Rican toucans, an education program and a release program.

The Ranch is always in need of additional help, and therefore provides volunteer opportunities for local, national and international individuals.

“Contributing as a volunteer, you are provided a unique experience, gaining an in depth understanding about our mission. As a volunteer, you can assist in the daily activities of running the Toucan Rescue Ranch, or you may offer your particular skills to focus on specific projects”, states the Toucan Rescue Ranch website.

Those interested in volunteering in this program must be at least 18 years-old, have availability to participate in the program for at least 1 month for foreigners and 20 days for locals, speak basic Spanish, must have a tetanus shot and of course a love for wildlife.

Among the chores that volunteers are in charge of, are cutting fruit and preparing the meals for all animals in the Ranch, help clean the enclosures, help with the yard maintenance and office work, among others. “Depending on the volunteer’s background and personality, they may be asked if they would like to help with other tasks. All volunteers are observed on how well they handle themselves around wildlife to determine further responsibility”.

To apply simply visit the website: http://toucanrescueranch.org/volunteer/ and fill up the application form.