Wolf Conservation Volunteer Project, Portugal

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Volunteer at an ethical wolf sanctuary. Learn about wolf conservation in Portugal whilst supporting the welfare of the endangered Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus).

Learn about the plight of the iconic Iberian wolf, and help to contribute directly to conserving this endangered species. Relax and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings, whilst exploring Portuguese culture and heritage during your free time.

The wolf sanctuary is located within a stunning 18 hectares of forest, in the hillsides near Mafra, about 30km North of the capital city of Lisbon.

Our priority is to respect all wolves and ensure their welfare, and the help of volunteers is essential in supporting this mission. No one is allowed to touch the wolves. Our goal is to give them a similar life to the one they would have in the wild.

The work is physical and demanding. Most of the time it involves working with manual tools and clearing vegetation in a hot climate. However, it is highly rewarding knowing your work contributes directly to helping conserve this magnificent species. Typical Volunteer Tasks include;

• Preparation of food and feeding the wolves. (Please note, food preparation involves handling and cutting of raw meat).
• Checking the wolves’ water supplies.
• Monitoring and observation of the wolves.
• Forest maintenance; tree felling and pruning; removal of branches and other materials and subsequent burning; vegetation clearing using agricultural tools and so on.
• During the summer (May to October) watching out for forest fires - can include night shifts.
• Infrastructure maintenance: checking enclosure walls and fences, painting; maintaining pathways in the forest.