Earthwatch.
2008 EXPEDITION BRIEFING AND FORMS
Cheetah
Dr. Laurie Marker
Cheetah Conservation Fund

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i
Dear Earthwatch Volunteer,
Welcome to the Cheetah expedition and thank you for volunteering to spend time with us in
Namibia to help save the wild cheetah. I really appreciate your commitment and contribution to
support our ongoing scientific research, conservation and education work. Since the Cheetah
Conservation Fund (CCF) was founded, volunteers have been the backbone of CCF’s programs
and are fully part of the success in our efforts to save the endangered cheetah.
When you travel from your home to CCF, you are bringing far more than a pair of willing hands.
The fresh perspectives and enthusiasm of our volunteers is a constant reminder for us that our
work may be taking place in an isolated environment, but that others in the world are as
committed as we are to conserving these unique predators.
Our volunteers also serve as ambassadors for our local farming community – your very presence
helps show local farmers that the world is interested in the cheetah’s race for survival and shows
that, while they may consider cheetahs pests, others will travel thousands of kilometers to see
these amazing animals in the wild, bringing a much-needed boost to the Namibian economy that
helps improve key services, such as medical and educational facilities and programs. In this way,
you help us achieve one of our key goals to turn our local farmers into conservationists in their
own right, all the while improving their livestock and farm management skills.
This is my passion - that cheetahs and humans can live together and prosper.
While working with us you will become part of the CCF team. I’m sure you will learn a lot about
cheetahs, and about biodiversity and the challenges and opportunities that we face as
conservationists. While it can be hard work, I’ve always been able to turn back to our goal – to
help cheetahs in their race for survival.
I hope you enjoy the experience of being part of our team and helping the efforts to conserve the
cheetah. We’re really looking forward to meeting you.
Thank you very much for deciding to give CCF your support!
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Laurie Marker
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Cheetah
Table of Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION...................................................................................................................... 1
THE EXPEDITION ..................................................................................................................................... 2
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 2
2. RESEARCH AREA ................................................................................................................................... 3
3. PROJECT STAFF ...................................................................................................................................... 4
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD..................................................................................................................... 8
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS ........................................................................................... 8
TEAM ITINERARY ................................................................................................................................. 10
DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS ............................................................................................................. 11
ACCOMMODATIONS ............................................................................................................................. 12
FOOD ................................................................................................................................................... 12
TRAVEL PLANNING ............................................................................................................................... 13
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE ........................................................................................................................... 13
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................................ 17
11. HEALTH INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................... 19
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 20
13. RECOMMENDED READING.................................................................................................................. 22
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD .............................................................................................................. 23
15. HELPFUL RESOURCES ........................................................................................................................ 23
APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................. 25
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST ................................................................................................ 33
iii
GENERAL INFORMATION
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR:
POSITION/TITLE:
AFFILIATION:
Laurie Marker, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Cheetah Conservation Fund
PROJECT TITLE:
Cheetah: Conservation Strategies for the LongTerm Survival of Cheetah in Namibia
RESEARCH SITE:
Cheetah Conservation Fund’s International
Research and Education Centre, Namibia
EXPEDITION LENGTH:
15 days
TEAM SIZE MINIMUM/ MAXIMUM:
2/6 volunteers
MINIMUM AGE OF PARTICIPATION:
18 years of age *
* It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate if accompanied by a parent or
guardian. Contact Earthwatch for more information and see Section 9 ‘Before You Leave’ for
traveling advice for minors.
1
THE EXPEDITION
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW
“All the people who work with CCF are a huge family and all are working for cheetah survival. We work
for the 15,000 cheetahs that still run wild, and the many more that I hope my work will help to keep wild
for future generations.”
~ Patricia Tricorache, Cheetah Conservation Fund
The Project
Cheetahs are more numerous in Namibia than in any other country in the world. However, this
could easily change as 95% of them are found outside protected reserves on commercial livestock
farmlands, and in Namibia, the wildlife belongs to the landowner. The goal of this ongoing
project is to secure habitat for the long-term survival of the cheetah and its ecosystem through
multi-disciplined, integrated programs in research, conservation and education. This research
aims to provide the baseline data and long-term studies necessary to understand factors affecting
the cheetah’s survival on these farmlands, and to develop policies and programs to sustain
Namibian cheetah populations.
Already the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) has made good progress at understanding
aspects of cheetah ecology on north central Namibian farmlands. It is clear that CCF’s programs
have impacted these animals, as the population is now showing signs of stabilization. Much
progress has also been made in creating awareness and developing collaborations with farmers.
However, due to Namibia’s land reform process, the farming sector is undergoing many changes.
Since independence, emerging commercial farmers have been moving onto farmland and group
resettlement projects have been developed. Many of these “new” landowners have not farmed in
the presence of predators before and much work needs to be done to evaluate levels of conflict,
attitudes, perceptions and livestock management to reduce losses to cheetahs. This, and work to
adapt CCF’s programs for use in other countries where cheetah populations still exist and are in
need, are the future priorities of this project.
Being Part of an Earthwatch Team
The contributions of Earthwatch volunteers during their stay are many and varied. Each task,
whether menial or exciting, contributes to the whole. Volunteer participation occurs on many
different levels, for example, collecting and reviewing data, updating biomedical inventories on a
computer, going on game counts, maintaining cheetah holding pens, and caring for the livestock
guarding dogs (Turkish Anatolian shepherds) and their goatherds. As an Earthwatch volunteer,
you will have the opportunity to assist CCF staff in caring for non-releasable cheetahs and to take
part in monitoring their behavior. In addition, if wild-caught cheetahs are brought to CCF’s
Education and Research Centre, you may assist in conducting health examinations and
biomedical collections. If you’re lucky, you may even participate in the release of a cheetah back
into the wild!
Public education and the development of active grassroots support are also integral components
of the project. CCF works with farmers, teachers and the general public, educating them about
the need and methods to conserve Namibia’s rich biodiversity as well as the role of cheetahs in
2
healthy ecosystems. You may have an opportunity to participate in CCF’s Education Program by
guiding visitors through the Education Centre or helping with a presentation.
During Earthwatch expeditions the volunteers truly become part of the CCF team. Staff will do
their best to utilize any relevant skills and talents and occasionally volunteers may also be asked
to help prepare communal dinners. You are encouraged to fully enjoy the experience of being
part of a team and helping to conserve the cheetah.
Note: See Cheetah: The Research in the appendix of this briefing for information on the research
objectives, methods, and results of this project.
2. RESEARCH AREA
Physical Environment
CCF is based on a 7,000-hectare (14,000-acre) farm called “Elandsvreugde,” which means
“Eland’s Joy.” Besides cheetahs, the farm is home to many species, including the kudu,
hartebeest, oryx (gemsbok), duiker, steenbok, warthog, jackal, leopard, brown hyena, and
numerous bird species, as well as an array of smaller animals and insects. The farm is situated in
the north central part of Namibia, approximately 45 kilometers (30 miles) east of the town of
Otjiwarongo. Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek, is about a 3.5-hour drive south. This is an arid
country, approximately 1,463 meters (4,800 feet) above sea level, and is dominated by cattle, goat,
and sheep ranching. Throughout much of the country’s ranch land, native wildlife coexists with
livestock. This environment is the last stronghold of the wild cheetah.
For information on the climate and hazards of the research area, see Section 10 ‘Project Conditions.’
Cultural Environment
The Republic of Namibia is a large, sparsely populated country on Africa’s southwest coast,
which has enjoyed nearly two decades of stability since achieving independence in 1990. English
is Namibia’s national language, though Afrikaans and German are widely spoken. The
government’s policy of national reconciliation and unity embraces the concepts of tolerance,
respect for differing political views, and racial and ethnic harmony. Today Namibia is a peaceful
country, economically prosperous as a result of its productive mining, fishing, tourism and
agricultural industries. For more information on Namibia visit www.namibiatourism.com.na.
While several nationalities and cultures are represented among CCF staff, English is the official
language on the farm. The dress code on the farm is casual but conservative, and CCF staff
request that volunteers dress appropriately (see Section 12 ‘Packing Considerations’).
Being culturally sensitive is important when coming to a foreign country. Things will be different
– using common sense and showing respect, patience, good humor and an acceptance of others
will all help you enjoy these differences and make them part of a rich experience.
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3. PROJECT STAFF
Exact staffing schedules had not been determined at the time of printing. Dr. Marker will be onsite
during Earthwatch expeditions as her schedule allows, but will not be able to be present with
every team. She expects to be present with Teams IX and X, and part-time with Teams III and VI.
Principal Investigator and Executive Director
Dr. Laurie Marker (American) is Co-Founder and Executive Director of CCF. She received a B.Sc.
degree from Eastern Oregon State University in 1990 and a Ph.D. from the University of Oxford’s
(UK) Department of Zoology in 2003. During 16 years (1974-1988) at Wildlife Safari in Oregon,
she helped establish the most successful captive cheetah-breeding program in North America.
She first came to Namibia in 1977 when she brought a captive-born, hand-raised cheetah to the
country to determine if cheetahs must be taught to hunt or if the process is instinctual. This was
the first of this type of research to better understand if there is a chance for captive-born cheetahs
to be reintroduced into the wild. While in Namibia, Dr. Marker learned about the conflict
between livestock farmers and cheetahs in the country, discovering that wild cheetahs needed
help. For the next 10 years she continued traveling to Africa to learn more about wild cheetah
problems and what could be done to assist wild populations. In the early 1980s, along with
collaborators at the National Zoo and National Cancer Institute in the US, she helped identify the
cheetah’s lack of genetic variation, thus causing the species greater problems for survival. In 1988,
in collaboration with these two institutions, she became the Executive Director of the Centre for
New Opportunities in Animal Health Sciences (NOAHS), based at the Smithsonian Institution’s
National Zoo. Dr. Marker continues to serve as a NOAHS Research Fellow. Also in 1988 she
developed the International Cheetah Studbook, a registry of captive cheetahs worldwide, and is
the International Studbook Keeper. Dr. Marker set up CCF in 1990, moving to Namibia to
develop a permanent conservation research center. In 1996 she was made Vice-Chair of the
World Conservation Union’s (IUCN) Species Survival Commission’s (SSC) Cat Specialist Group.
Currently Dr. Marker is involved with a large number of conservation-related organizations and
programs, including the Namibian Large Carnivore Management Forum, the Conservancy
Association of Namibia, the Waterberg Conservancy, the Namibian Veterinary Association, the
Namibian Professional Hunters Association Rare Species Committee, the American Association
of Zoological Parks and Aquariums and the Society of Women Geographers. She has also
received numerous awards. In 2000 she was recognized as one of Time Magazine’s Heroes for the
Planet and given the Burrow’s Conservation Award from Cincinnati, Ohio. In 2001 she was
locally honored in Namibia, receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship from the Windhoek Rotary
Club, and in 2002 she received a special award from the Sanveld Conservancy, signifying
Namibia’s farming community’s public acknowledgement of Dr. Marker and CCF’s
contributions. In 2003 Chevron-Texaco honored her as Conservationist of the Year and in 2005
she received the Tracks in the Sand Award from The Living Desert. She has also produced an
extensive number of publications concerning Namibian cheetahs.
Field Team Leaders
Matti Nghikembua (Namibian) has been a Senior Research Assistant and Education Officer for
the project since 1997, assisting with ongoing ecological research and the bush encroachment
program. He is responsible for training student interns from the Polytechnic of Namibia and
University of Namibia (UNAM) and coordinates environmental education and outreach
programs at CCF. Matti has seven years’ experience in field surveys and worked as an
interviewer for field surveys at UNAM’s Multidisciplinary Research Social Sciences Division
prior to joining CCF in February 1997. He conducted a baseline vegetation survey for the Fire
4
Management Trial Plots at Kanovlei Forestry Research Station, Western Bushmanland, for the
Directorate of Forestry, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, and holds a National Diploma in
Natural Resource Management and a B.Tech. degree from Polytechnic of Namibia. Matti is now
completing his Master’s in Development Studies with the University of the Orange Free State. He
is fluent in five Namibian languages and has extensive knowledge of local cultures.
Marianne de Jonge (Dutch) has been a Research Assistant and Curator for the project since
October 2005. She is responsible for all cheetah care and maintaining cheetah holding pens. She
previously interned at CCF for several months over two consecutive years and worked at the
Wassanaar Cheetah Breeding Centre and Burger’s Zoo in the Netherlands for seven years.
Phillip Randle (American) is a Research Assistant and Curator for the project. He joined CCF in
2005 as an intern through the University of Oregon’s Global Graduates Program. After his
internship he volunteered for three months before being offered a position in February 2006.
Anne-Marie Stewart (South African) has been a Research Assistant for the project since
September 2007. She is responsible for data collection and analysis and conducting wildlife
surveys. Anne-Marie was the Earthwatch Coordinator and Reserve Manager for the Meerkats of
the Kalahari project in 2005 as well as a researcher for The Nature Conservancy in Indonesia,
developing rapid rainforest survey techniques from 2006-2007. She is currently Editor of the
IUCN/SSC Pigs, Peccaries, and Hippos Specialist Group newsletter. Anne-Marie obtained a
Master’s degree in Nature Conservation from Pretoria University of Technology in 2005.
Christopher Gordon (British) has been a Research Assistant for the project since September 2007.
He is responsible for data collection and analysis and conducting wildlife surveys. Chris was a
Behavioral Researcher for the Meerkats of the Kalahari project in 2005 and a researcher for The
Nature Conservancy in Indonesia, developing rapid rainforest survey techniques from 2006-2007.
He is currently Africa Coordinator for the IUCN/SSC Pigs, Peccaries, and Hippos Specialist
Group. Chris obtained a B.Sc. in Zoology from Manchester University in 2004.
Laura Linn (American) is an Administrative Assistant for the project. She assists the Operations
Manager, General Manager and Research Assistants with various administrative tasks and data
collection and analysis. She also assists with Education Centre tours and activities. Laura has a
Zoology degree from Oregon State University. She joined CCF in January 2007 as an intern
through the University of Oregon’s Global Graduates Program. After her internship she
volunteered for several months before being offered her current position.
Additional Project Staff Members
Dr. Bruce Brewer (American) has been the project’s General Manager since 1998 and is
responsible for the overall day-to-day running of CCF and the CCF Bushblok project. He is an
evolutionary biologist with over 20 years’ experience in the management of zoological
collections. He was previously Curator at the Chicago Zoo Society, where he was Chair of the
Division of Animal Collections. He has experience managing professional and technical staffs of
up to 100 persons. Dr. Brewer received his Ph.D. studying population biology and genetics and
has academic training and experience in animal nutrition, husbandry and population
management of various taxa of mammals, and maintenance of animal colonies, including
experimental design and programming of appropriate computer software to monitor the data.
Johan Britz (Namibian) is the Farms Manager for the project, overseeing the functioning of all
aspects of the CCF farm, such as water supply, electricity, vehicles, food for captive cheetahs and
livestock management. He also manages the farm workers and oversees university agriculture
students. Johan has 13 years’ experience in cattle farm work and was an Agricultural Training
Officer at Neudamm Agricultural College, lecturing on game farming, large stock farming,
5
financial management, agricultural marketing and strategic planning and production economics.
He is coauthor of the paper Integrating Game into Conventional Animal Production Systems in
Namibia, presented at the British Society of Animal Production/Animal Production Society Kenya
Conference in Nairobi, Kenya (1998), and coauthor of Complementarity of Game with Livestock
Production in Namibia, published by the World Animal Review. He holds a Master’s degree in
Sustainable Agriculture from Orange Free State University and a B.Sc. in Agriculture, Animal
Science and Agricultural Economics from Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
Engelhardt /Awaseb (Namibian) has been Assistant Farm Manager for the project since 2003 and
is responsible for assisting with management of the farms and all livestock. He obtained a
National Diploma in Agriculture from the Neudamm Agricultural College in 2003 and worked
with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Rural Development assisting in the National
Extension Impact Baseline Survey. He holds certificates from the Nguni Breeders Association and
the Brahman Breeders Association and won the EPOL Trophy for Outstanding Achievement in
Animal Nutrition. He also completed the Smithsonian Institution’s Wildlife Capture and
Translocation Course in 2003. Engelhardt is fluent in four Namibian languages.
Bessie Simon (Namibian) has been Farm Supervisor for the project since April 2003 and is
responsible for daily operations at Janhelpman Cattle Farm. She supervises animal husbandry,
assigns farm staff and assists scientific staff in the collection of data regarding cheetah biology
and ecology. She has 14 years’ experience as a farm manager, including conservancy farms, and
is an experienced data analyst and cattle and small stock farmer.
Max Simon (Namibian) has been Maintenance Supervisor since April 2003 and is responsible for
the maintenance and improvement of CCF facilities and equipment such as vehicles, engines,
water and electric systems and fences. He assists the Farm Manager and Assistant Farm Manager
in the supervision and scheduling of farm staff and assists others with animal husbandry and
research tasks as required. Max started his career as a mechanical engineer and worked for the
transitional government in Namibia for five years as an inspector of works. He has 14 years’
experience as a farm manager, including conservancy farms.
Ezekiel Fabiano (Angolan) has been a Research Assistant for the project since 2005. He manages
the CCF databases, conducts data analysis and assists with game counts and other ecological
research projects. In 2002 he was a Laboratory Assistant at UNAM, where he earned a B.Sc. in
Environmental Biology and Computer Science. He has been a member of the Namibian Tree
Atlas Project since 2002. Ezekiel obtained a Master’s in Environment and Development from the
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal in 2006.
Gebhardt Nikanor (Namibian) has been an Education Officer for the project since 2001 and is
responsible for coordinating and conducting environmental education and outreach programs at
schools and at the CCF center. He is also responsible for Education Centre visitors, including
tourists and school groups, as well as education activities with youth groups, environmental
groups and schools. He has over six years’ experience in education workshops and programs
with the Ministry of Youth and Sport and the Desert Research Foundation, with relevant
certificates from Rossing Foundation, University of South Africa, Ministry of Youth and Sport,
UNICEF and SADC. He has a background in teaching environmental education in Namibian
schools. He is fluent in four Namibian languages and has extensive knowledge of local cultures.
Stephanus Upani (Namibian) has been a Tourism Officer for the project since August 2007 and is
responsible for Education Centre visitors. He has attended a basic Wilderness Training Course
from Wilderness Safaris and has qualified as a National Tour Guide of Namibia. He has also been
a Wildlife Conservation and Tourism Ranger for Etosha National Park.
6
Gunther Roeber (Namibian) has been the Agricultural Training and Development Officer since
February 2007 and is responsible for farmer and farm-worker training courses and course
development. He was born and raised on a cattle farm in Otjiwarongo where he developed a
passion for livestock farming. In 1992, he completed his Bachelor degree in Agriculture
Administration at the University of Stellenbosch. His career in cattle farming began as manager
and later through leasing a cattle enterprise. As a sideline business, Gunther ran training
workshops for micro-enterprises, community-based tourism and a wide range of livestock
farming related topics. He also gained experience in corporate social responsibility with Nedbank
Namibia on coordinating the Corporate Social Investment portfolio. Gunther is now an
established freelance workshop facilitator and has conducted over 180 courses. He is currently
enrolled in a Master’s program in Sustainable Agriculture at the University of the Free State.
Elizabeth Lester (American) is a Veterinary Technician originally from Colorado. She is a
graduate of the University of Kansas and Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology. Elizabeth
comes to CCF from the White Oak Conservation Center in Florida as a one-year intern.
Heike Stackmann (German) is CCF’s Volunteer Coordinator and Public Relations Officer for the
project. She came to Namibia in 2006 and began organizing CCF’s annual fundraising gala
dinner. Heike keeps in touch with cheetah and livestock guarding dog sponsors and donors and
is the contact person for all prospective CCF volunteers. She started out as a shipping agent and
worked in Germany and Ireland as well as being a tour guide. Heike has a Diploma in
Translations from the London Institute of Linguists and worked as a freelance translator before
moving to Namibia.
Monique Escurat (French) is a part-time accountant for CCF. She has a B.Sc. in Economics and an
M.B.A. as well as a specialized diploma in Fiscal and Company Law. Monique has many years of
experience consulting in economic and financial analysis, creating small and mid-size enterprises,
and developing property. She came to Namibia in 1992 and has worked as an employee and/or
consultant in accounting, finance, management, budgetary and cost controls, implementation of
business planning/expansion and accounting systems.
CCF also supports approximately 20 Namibian farm and domestic workers. You are likely to get
to know several fairly well, including Simon (works in the meat room), Secilia (cook), Aramas
(herder), Engelbrecht (fixes things around the farm), Maria, Kristophina, Veronica and Elfriede
(in charge of cleaning).
7
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD
4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS
Training
You will be given an in-depth orientation, detailing your team’s daily schedule and the work you
will be doing during your expedition. However, note that schedules may change as CCF staff are
always on call to collect cheetahs and deal with issues as they arise. You will be taken on a tour of
the International Cheetah Research and Education Centre in order to become familiar with
various programs underway at the center, the layout of the farm roads, and identification of
native wildlife and habitat. Earthwatch volunteers work side-by-side with CCF staff and are
trained in all research tasks. The primary tasks are ecosystem assessment and cheetah care, which
are conducted directly with CCF staff members. Much of the volunteer work involves computers
(e.g. data entry) and a basic knowledge of their use is beneficial, though instruction will be
provided if needed. Once comfortable with your tasks, you will be free to conduct them
independently. Staff members will always be close by to answer questions and offer guidance.
Primary Assignments
All Earthwatch volunteers will participate in the primary tasks listed below.
Ecosystem Assessment
Assessing the viability of Namibia’s farmland as long-term habitat for the cheetah is a key
component of this research. This requires many hours of concentrated work during specific, short
time periods throughout each month. Earthwatch volunteers will participate in conducting a
variety of game counts at different times of day. There are seven game counts that are conducted
each month; four two-hour strip counts conducted in the evenings and nights and a one-hour
field count done on three consecutive days in the late afternoon. There are also three activities
tracking game spoor once a week for comparison with other cheetah census techniques. For this
assignment, a tracker sits on the front of a car and volunteers record measurements and count
species in the area. In addition, CCF conducts various habitat-monitoring programs and
volunteers assist in data collection on bush-harvested plots. Twelve-hour wildlife counts are
conducted during the new moon in August. Volunteers may help CCF in this effort by joining
Team VIII. For the waterhole count, pairs of volunteers work for a 12-hour period (6:00 am-6:00
pm) in blinds that have a good view of the waterhole. Information is recorded on data sheets and
later entered into a computer database. You will have the opportunity to observe many species of
wildlife around the waterhole, such as oryx, kudu, red hartebeest, eland, steenbok, warthog,
jackal, aardwolf, aardvark, porcupine, a large variety of birds and more.
Animal Care
Volunteers participate in the daily feeding of resident cheetahs at CCF. Although most cheetahs
are released back into the wild, some are held at CCF for various periods of time until they are
ready to be released. Please note that donkeys are raised and slaughtered on site for cheetah food.
When puppies are at the center for the Livestock Guarding Dog Program, multiple feedings are
necessary during the day. Volunteers may be required to assist with raising the puppies. CCF’s
dogs live with a large herd of goats. Several times a year, the herd is wormed and vaccinated and
Earthwatch volunteers assist with this aspect of animal husbandry.
8
Cheetah Ecology
CCF has initiated several ongoing research projects to assess the current biodiversity of the
Namibian farmland system. These projects require the assistance of Earthwatch volunteers and
include vegetation transects, where volunteers assist in the collection of plant material for
analysis; a small mammal population study, where volunteers assist with live-trapping, marking
and release of small mammals and recording data; and reviewing photos and data entry for
cheetah population estimate studies.
Data Entry
Volunteers assist with all aspects of computer data entry, using primarily Microsoft Excel and
Word as well as slide and photo scanning programs.
Additional Assignments
In addition to the primary assignments above, all volunteers will participate in at least one of the
following secondary tasks.
Education Assistance
Some volunteers may assist in CCF’s Education Program, which is designed to familiarize people
of all ages with the cheetah, its problems for survival, and some solutions to these problems. CCF
staff and volunteers present educational programs that last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour
and a half. Programs are conducted at primary schools, secondary schools, and colleges around
the country, as well as at CCF’s Education Centre. They involve video presentations and
encourage audience interaction. A question-and-answer period concludes each session. With the
development of the Education Centre, programs are also conducted at CCF’s farm base.
Volunteers assist CCF staff with these programs, aiding in presentations and serving as guides.
Livestock Guarding Dog Program
CCF breeds and raises dogs to protect herds of goats and sheep from predators. These dogs
originated in Turkey, which has a similar climate to Namibia. The dogs consider the herd their
family and guard them instinctively. Dogs are donated to farmers as part of the ongoing
education and community programs. Volunteers aid in the Livestock Guarding Dog Program by
participating in visits to farms where dogs have been placed, are going to be placed, or during a
placement. During these visits, volunteers and CCF staff observe the dog’s behavior and its
interaction with its flock. Records are made of the dog’s progress and any problems that the
farmer has noticed with the dog and/or any predator problems on the farm. Suggestions may be
made to aid the farmer in his management. These observations help evaluate the effectiveness of
the project. Puppies require weaning several weeks prior to farm placement. Volunteers may
assist with this as needed.
Biological Sampling
Cheetah captures are opportunistic and do not happen very often. Should a call be received from
a farmer who has caught a cheetah, volunteers assist in biological sampling, which entails
anaesthetizing the cat, monitoring vital signs and taking body measurements, tagging the
cheetah, and taking blood and skin samples. The information gathered is invaluable in the
assessment of the overall health and genetic-relatedness of the wild cheetah population (as
cheetahs have a very narrow genetic pool worldwide). During the procedure, volunteers also
observe discussions between CCF staff and the farmer. These discussions involve sharing
information about the cheetah, gathering information about the farmer’s livestock or game losses
and suggesting solutions to the farmer’s problems. This information is entered into a computer
database.
9
Samples collected from non-releasable cheetahs on an ongoing basis include feces (for stress
levels and reproductive hormone levels), semen and blood. These samples need to be catalogued
and prepared for storage and shipment. In the event of a dead cheetah, volunteers may assist
with necropsies (autopsies), but this is entirely voluntary. Volunteers may also be asked to
participate in ongoing behavioral studies by observing cheetahs in the holding facilities at CCF.
Cheetah Studbook
Dr. Laurie Marker is the International Cheetah Studbook Keeper. The Studbook is a registry of all
cheetahs in captivity worldwide. Volunteers may assist in correspondence with facilities that
have cheetahs and input data as it is received from these facilities.
5. TEAM ITINERARY
The work of CCF varies from day to day and the itinerary is drafted accordingly. A schedule for
the following day is put up in the office and in the dining area every evening. Most time will be
spent on the farm or its adjoining properties. Field trips to collect and work on cheetahs are
possible, although not guaranteed. Similarly, volunteers may be asked to join staff placing
puppies, carrying out education programs or assisting in game counts or habitat studies. In
August, volunteers will participate in a 12-hour wildlife count. During recreational time, you
may want to go for a walk or jog. Please inform CCF staff of your whereabouts at all times. Your
team may make a trip into Otjiwarongo, usually to go shopping for the team or on the way to
another farm. You may therefore have an opportunity to do some personal shopping, exchange
money, etc. There will be one recreational day during the expedition (see below).
The following is a typical schedule.
Day 1 (Sunday):
Day 2 (Monday):
Rendezvous, travel to CCF
Cheetah run, learn basic animal care, orientation, tour of CCF’s
International Cheetah Research and Education Centre
Day 3 (Tuesday):
Routine animal care tasks, identification of individual projects, evening
strip game count
Day 4 (Wednesday): Spoor tracking, work on individual projects
Day 5 (Thursday):
Cheetah run, routine animal care tasks, data entry, night strip game count
Day 6 (Friday):
Spoor tracking, work on individual projects
Day 7 (Saturday):
Trip into Otjiwarongo for shopping, recreational time
Day 8 (Sunday):
Recreational day – optional trip to Etosha, Waterberg Plateau Park or
Mooihoek Caves and Outjo Canyon at your own expense (see Recreational
Day Activities below)
Day 9 (Monday):
Fieldwork, work on individual projects, evening field game count
Day 10 (Tuesday):
Cheetah run, routine animal care tasks, work on individual projects,
evening field game count
Day 11 (Wednesday): Fieldwork, work on individual projects, evening field game count
Day 12 (Thursday): Cheetah run, routine animal care tasks, work on individual projects
Day 13 (Friday):
Spoor tracking, data entry, afternoon visit to cheetah playtree
Day 14 (Saturday):
Cheetah run, routine animal care tasks, recreational time
Day 15 (Sunday:
Depart from CCF
10
Recreational Day Activities
Each volunteer will have one recreational day, with three optional trips to choose from. It will
only be possible for each volunteer to do one of these trips during the expedition. Additional
trips can be arranged independently for before or after the expedition. It would be helpful to
know ahead of time how much interest there is in each trip in order to make the necessary
advance bookings, although bookings can be made or confirmed onsite. The recreational day is
usually Sunday, however if different trips have been arranged, volunteers may have different
recreational days as not all trips will occur on the same day. Each trip is provided by an
independent tour operator and costs N$2,500 per person if one person joins, N$1,250 per person
if two people join, and N$850 per person if three or more people join. Prices and itineraries are
subject to change. See below for trip details.
•
Etosha: Price includes entrance fees, a visit to the Okaukeujo and Halali waterholes, and game
drives that could include Leeubron, Sueva, Salvadora, Gemsbokvlakte, Nebrownii,
Olifantsbad, Rietfontein and Goas.
•
Waterberg Plateau: Price includes entrance fees at Waterberg Plateau Park, a walk up to the
summit, and an afternoon game drive on the plateau.
•
Mooihoek Caves and Outjo Canyon: Price includes entrance fees, a guided tour through the
cave, a game drive, and a drive to the canyon.
6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS
Despite the best planning, schedules can and do fluctuate due to weather and unforeseen
circumstances such as cheetah pickups. Your cooperation and understanding are appreciated.
The following is an example of a typical day.
7:00 am:
8:00 am:
1:00 pm:
2:00 pm:
5:00 pm:
Sunset:
8:00 pm:
Breakfast
Workday begins
Lunch
Workday continues, often with individually assigned projects
Evening strip game count
Dinner and review of day’s work, schedule of next day’s work (time varies)
Possible night strip game count
11
7. ACCOMMODATIONS
Volunteers stay in two-person rondavels, traditional circular African dwellings with conical
thatched roofs, located within the field site. Each rondavel is furnished with two beds, a
wardrobe, small shelves, a sink and a lamp. Couples are accommodated together, while all other
volunteers are matched with same-gender teammates. All energy is by means of solar panels and
a generator. Volunteers can bring along small electronic equipment with low power usage such
as electronic cameras, walkmans, shavers, etc. Electronic equipment should be able to operate on
220-240 volts. See Section 9 ‘Travel Planning’ for more information.
Beds (single with a solid base and mattress), bedding and mosquito nets are provided. Bedding is
synthetic and consists of one duvet, one duvet cover, two pillows, two pillow cases, one flat
sheet, one fitted sheet and one blanket. Additional blankets are available on request. Towels (one
bath and one hand) are also provided. Volunteers are responsible for washing their own bedding
and for keeping their rondavels clean. Bring your own toiletries and basic personal supplies,
although they can be purchased at stores in town if needed. Unisex bathrooms with flush toilets
and showers are attached to the kitchen area, a short walk from the rondavels. Hot water is
available but may be limited. Laundry facilities are provided and volunteers are asked to
combine clothes to reduce water usage. Water is very limited, so please use it wisely. The
rondavels are not air-conditioned or heated.
8. FOOD
Meals are eaten at a communal dining facility called “The Hot Spot,” located next to the
rondavels. The kitchen is well stocked with many Western style foods. Tap water is safe to drink
at CCF facilities and in Windhoek, Otjiwarongo and Etosha. There is a cook on CCF staff, but you
may be asked to assist with some meal preparation. A housekeeper cleans the kitchen and
washes dishes after lunch and dinner. All staff and volunteers prepare their own breakfasts and
clean their own breakfast dishes. Please help keep the kitchen and dining areas clean at all times.
Below are examples of foods you might expect during your expedition, however, variety depends
on availability and it is important to be flexible.
Breakfast:
Lunch:
Dinner:
Snacks:
Beverages:
Cereal, milk, yoghurt, bread, jams
Salad, bread rolls, quiche, light meals
Meat and vegetarian lasagna, salad, cooked vegetables, fruit salad
Biscuits, fruit (other snacks can be bought in Otjiwarongo at your own expense)
Water, juice, coffee and tea are always available free of charge, but you must buy your
own alcohol and soft drinks (soft drinks and snacks available from the CCF gift shop)
Special Dietary Requirements
Please alert your Expedition Coordinator to any special dietary requirements as soon as possible
(e.g. diabetic, lactose intolerant, etc.). Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed and can be
very difficult. Alternatively, bring specialty food items with you.
Special note to vegans and strict vegetarians: Please be aware that it is often difficult to
accommodate strict vegetarians and vegans. It may be possible to get meatless meals but vegans
and strict vegetarians may have a problem avoiding animal products altogether. If this poses a
problem, then participation on this Earthwatch expedition should be seriously reconsidered.
12
TRAVEL PLANNING
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Note: Earthwatch Institute’s international travel insurance company, International SOS, has a
wealth of useful information available at their website, including visa, passport, currency,
medical, etc. information for the country in which this project takes place. See
www.internationalsos.com and enter Earthwatch’s member identification number:
14ACPA000075. Under “Select Resource” choose “English Country Guide,” and then select
Namibia from the list. For a listing of other useful websites for passport and visa requirements,
see Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources.’
Entry Requirements
Most volunteers traveling from outside Namibia will require a passport valid for at least six
months beyond the dates of travel. Citizens of the US, EU, Australia, Canada, and Japan do not
need a tourist visa for entry into Namibia if the stay is less than three months. Citizens of other
countries should check with a travel or visa agency for specific visa and entry requirements. If
you do need a visa, the chart below should be useful.
Note: When filling out your Customs declaration form prior to arrival in Windhoek, note that you
are entering as a TOURIST.
Essential Information for Volunteers Requiring Visas
Type of Visa
Where to Get a
Visa
Required
Information
Cost of a Visa
You must get a TOURIST VISA.
Contact the nearest Namibian Embassy or Consulate to find out how to apply
for your visa. Please note that this process can take weeks or more. If you have
less than six weeks or wish to save yourself trouble, we strongly recommend
using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.
You will need to send your passport, a Visa Application and Immigration
Form, 2-4 passport-size photos plus payment to the embassy or visa agency
(if applicable). Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months
beyond your stay.
Generally between US$40-100, but varies from country to country and can
potentially cost up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee
(depending on the amount of time it takes to process the application), which
you can inquire about directly.
Reminder: The purpose of your visit is for vacation, holiday or travel. Foreign immigration
officials do not always understand the concept of a “working vacation” or even “volunteering.”
Words such as “working”/”volunteering,” “research” or a “scientific expedition” can raise
questions concerning the country’s foreign labor laws and/or prompt questions about official
scientific research permits and credentials, etc., which volunteers on their own will not be
equipped with the appropriate responses. All required research permits for the project are in
place and have been approved by the proper authorities.
13
Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age
Entry to Foreign Countries
In an effort to prevent international child abduction many governments have initiated
procedures at entry/exit points. It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate in the
project if accompanied by a parent or guardian. In this case, if the minor will be traveling with
only one guardian or if for any reason they will be traveling alone, it may be necessary to have a
notarized letter from all legal guardians stipulating that they may travel unaccompanied or in the
presence of a single guardian. This letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or
someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one
parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter
should state that.
In addition, airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors.
Parents of minors are responsible for checking with each airline that their child will be flying to
ensure that sufficient documentation is provided. This could include a copy of a birth certificate
or a notarized letter stating that the minor has his or her parent’s permission to travel alone or
with only one parent.
Note: Requirements by specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You MUST
keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If a letter is
not available, the volunteer under 18 can be refused entry into the country. There is nothing
Earthwatch Institute can do to help in this circumstance.
Travel Medical Insurance
Travel medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory for Earthwatch volunteers while on an
Earthwatch expedition anywhere in the world. The cost of this insurance is included in your
volunteer contribution. It covers volunteer travel medical risk, including medical expenses and
medical evacuation, while traveling with Earthwatch overseas or on an expedition within your
home country. Without insurance, the costs of such measures can range from US$20,000 to
$50,000.
The emergency medical and evacuation assistance provider for Earthwatch is On Call
International. On Call is a 24-hour international operation which provides medical assistance and
evacuation, a 24-hour nurse help line and other travel assistance services such as lost baggage
and lost document assistance.
Basic coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during international
travel to and from your expedition. If the expedition takes place in your home country, coverage
begins when your group forms for the expedition and ends when the group disbands, and is
incremental to your existing health insurance. Options are available for volunteers who would
like to extend the period of coverage, increase insurance amounts or purchase additional
cancellation or baggage insurance. Application forms for additional coverage are included in
your volunteer packet.
A detailed description of the Volunteer Medical and Evacuation Insurance Program policy,
including the optional coverage increases, will be sent with this briefing. Please note that
policies are specific to each Earthwatch office.
To contact On Call International in the event of an emergency, dial:
•
•
1-866-509-7715 from within the US
+1-603-898-9159 from outside the US
14
State that you are on an Earthwatch expedition. The Earthwatch policy number is #US008020.
Cancellation Insurance
Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended for Earthwatch volunteers. Depending on the
level of coverage you purchase, cancellation insurance will help cover your airfare and
Earthwatch contribution if you need to cancel your expedition due to medical or other covered
reasons. Earthwatch Institute does not reimburse airfare or costs associated with cancelled flights
or expeditions. Levels of reimbursement for cancelled airline tickets or ticket change fees will
vary depending on what type of trip cancellation policy you purchase. You are strongly advised
to buy flexible or refundable plane tickets. Note that volunteers with preexisting medical
conditions are encouraged to explore their coverage options.
For US and Canadian Volunteers
Earthwatch is offering comprehensive optional travel insurance through CSA Travel
Protection as a service to our US and Canadian volunteers. While our inclusive insurance covers
your emergency medical needs while in the field, this optional policy covers trip cancellation
insurance due to medical emergencies, lost luggage, travel delays, etc. For more information on
the insurance policy, call Earthwatch at 1‐800‐776‐0188 or visit www.csatravelprotection.com.
Please note that some coverage is dependent on purchasing insurance within 24 hours of paying
in full for your expedition. Should you decide to take out our optional insurance, please use the
following producer code to indicate your affiliation with Earthwatch: 83534816.
For Volunteers Signing Up through Earthwatch Europe
Earthwatch Europe volunteers can purchase travel insurance from Earthwatch that is
underwritten by Endsleigh and includes Additional Cancellation Cover. Additional Cancellation
Cover insurance includes cover for non-refundable travel expenses should your expedition be
cancelled. Alternatively, if Earthwatch Europe volunteers hold their own travel insurance they
may be able to purchase Additional Cancellation Cover through their existing insurer.
Travel Agencies
Contact your local travel agent or use the web to find the lowest rates to make your travel
arrangements. A list of suggested travel agents can be found in Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources.’ Be
sure to give your rendezvous details to your travel agent as soon as possible so they can plan
your trip accordingly.
15
Other Advice / Information
•
Language: English is the official language, however most residents speak Afrikaans and/or
tribal languages.
•
Telephone dialing codes: Namibia’s country code is +264; Windhoek’s city code is 61. Please
note that when dialing a Namibian phone number from within Namibia, you must dial a 0
first, then the number.
•
Emergency numbers: Dial 10111 for police and 211111 for fire and ambulance from Windhoek.
•
Electricity: Namibian electricity is 220-240 volts, 50 hertz. Electricity is from a generator and is
usually turned on in the morning at 7:15 am and turned off at 10:30 pm. Due to the lack of
direct electricity and the demand for power by the project and farm equipment, volunteers
are discouraged from bringing high-energy items such as hair dryers.
Plugs have three round prongs as indicated in the picture on the right
(the correct adaptor plug in white is next to a standard US plug in
black). Adaptor plugs can be bought at the airport in Johannesburg if
you stop there on your way. Volunteers from the US should note that
items that run on 110 volts can NOT be used at CCF without a
transformer, or they will blow up. Please bring a transformer if you
are bringing electronics that normally work on 110-120 volts.
•
Time zone: The time in the research area is UTC/GMT +2 hours, Daylight Savings Time +1.
•
Local currency: The Namibian dollar (N$) and South African rand (SAR) are both used. See the
International SOS website (above) and www.xe.com/ucc for currency information and
current exchange rates.
•
Personal funds: The amount of money each volunteer should bring will vary greatly
depending on individual requirements. It is useful to bring some SAR with you to use if
traveling via a South African airport. SAR can be used in Namibia; note, however, that N$
cannot be used outside Namibia. Money can be exchanged at the airport or at banks in
Windhoek or Otjiwarongo. There are also cash machines/ATMs in both Windhoek and
Otjiwarongo. The US dollar is a valuable currency in this part of Africa and can be exchanged
for either SAR or N$ at any bank or at the airport. There are also a number of private
exchange (bureau de change) facilities around Windhoek. Do not change on the black market;
it is illegal and there is absolutely no benefit in it. ATMs in Windhoek and Otjiwarongo will
take international credit cards (preferably MasterCard or Visa). Outside the capital and major
towns, this service is limited. You should carry some extra money for any travel,
accommodation and/or meals before and after the expedition. A taxi from the airport to
Windhoek will cost approximately N$200. There may be some limited expenses such as
drinks and snacks during the expedition and a chance to purchase locally made handcrafts.
CCF has a souvenir shop for mementos that also carries bottled water and canned soft drinks
(N$6 per can). There are more opportunities for shopping in Otjiwarongo and Windhoek.
•
Tipping: It is customary to tip taxi drivers 10% of the fare, and a small gratuity is also
appropriate for porters. Tipping is not expected in most restaurants. It may be expected in
upscale restaurants only if a service charge has not already been added to the bill.
16
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS
Please show this section to your physician when he/she is completing your health statement. Be sure to
discuss inoculation requirements with your physician well in advance of your departure date. See Section
11 ‘Health Information’ for inoculation information.
To the examining physician:
Your patient has volunteered to join a field research team that has specific physical demands of
which you and your patient should be aware. We need your accurate evaluation of your
patient’s ability to meet the conditions detailed below in order to safeguard his/her health and
safety and ensure that he/she can participate fully and effectively.
General Conditions of the Research Site
The research area is dry and dusty and can be very hot in the austral summer (NovemberMarch). Temperatures may exceed 100°F/38°C on the hottest days. Evenings are usually cool.
Adequate precautions should be taken year-round to avoid overexposure to the sun. If volunteers
go to other farms to pick up captured cheetahs, most of the day might be spent in direct sun.
Winter (May-August) days may still be warm, but nights and early mornings may drop below
freezing (32°F/0°C). The rainy season is October-April. The terrain is generally flat, heavily
bushed ranch land with scattered hills, ranging in altitude from 1,370 to 1,675 meters (4,500-5,500
feet). Dense thorny shrubs are common. Insects are prevalent, particularly in the rainy season.
Humidity
Temperature Range
Rainfall in the Rainy Season
20%
32°F/0°C
0 in/cm
to
to
to
50%
100°F/38°C
2.5 in/6.4 cm
Physical and Emotional Demands
Site conditions are basic but comfortable. Volunteers should be reasonably fit, without extreme
allergies to insect bites or in need of frequent medical care. Game counts involve up to three
hours in a vehicle and require fairly constant concentration using short- and long-distance sight,
sometimes through thick scrubland. Good night vision is also required. Volunteers should be
comfortable working with carnivores and should expect to participate in handling and feeding
fresh meat to the animals, including on hot days during summer.
CCF is a working farm with all the attendant life/death cycles and volunteers should be aware of
this before deciding to participate. Food animals are slaughtered (volunteers do not participate)
at an onsite abattoir/slaughterhouse.
Below are some of the expected demands of the project, but please keep in mind that conditions
may change and the project could potentially be more or less strenuous than the chart indicates.
Activity
Sitting
Walking/
Hiking
Climbing
Manual
handling
Construction
Workload/Intensity
During office work or in a car during game drives/trips. Up to 7 hours per day.
Mostly flat, sandy, rocky, bushy or thorny terrain (strong trousers
recommended). Up to 3 hours, but not every day.
Into and out of high-step safari vehicles requiring arm and leg strength. Daily.
Cats and cages can vary, weighing up to 70 kg/154 lbs. Short distances only
(e.g. between car and enclosures).
Varying degrees of construction work may be required, including cutting
through bushland with a machete (trail construction), building items such as
bench seats, painting, maintenance, etc. Up to 4 hours (timing varies).
17
Potential Hazards
Below are the hazards volunteers may encounter while participating in this project.
Transportation
Road hazards may include fast and reckless drivers, livestock, wildlife, pedestrians, rain and
thorns (tire punctures). Road conditions in Namibia are generally good in urban areas. The road
from Windhoek to Otjiwarongo is well maintained and is paved (tarmac). The road from
Otjiwarongo to CCF is a well-maintained gravel road. Other roads may be dirt, gravel and/or
corrugated and may be very bumpy, dusty, sandy, muddy and/or slippery depending on
weather conditions. Driving at night is avoided, with the possible exception of evening game
drives. Traffic moves on the left side of the road. Volunteers may work from the open back of a
four-wheel-drive truck with a safety railing and/or rollbar. Volunteers will not drive.
Walking/Hiking
Walking tracks within the CCF site itself are generally solid and clear, but in bushland there will
be uneven surfaces, overhanging trees including acacia (which has long spikes) and holes dug by
wildlife such as aardvarks. Acacia spikes may become lodged in the soles of shoes, so very tough
footwear is required. A few plants in the area are poisonous, but they are only harmful if eaten.
Climate/Weather
The sun can be very hot in Namibia especially in the summer months (November-March), so it is
important to avoid overexposure, use high SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothing and drink
plenty of water in order to prevent sun or heat stroke.
Altitude and Atmosphere
The altitude is not high enough to cause serious problems, but may cause dizziness, headaches or
other minor symptoms when volunteers first arrive. The dry, dusty atmosphere may affect those
with allergies, contact lenses or skin conditions. The combination of low humidity and elevation
can increase risk of dehydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
Animals
There are inherent risks in working with cheetahs and guard dogs. These are mitigated by
following the instructions given by staff. Other potentially dangerous animals in the research area
may include baboons, warthogs and leopards, and at Etosha (visited on the recreational day)
volunteers may also encounter elephants, rhinos, lions, zebras, antelope and other animals. Biting
and stinging insects, including bees and mosquitoes, are present. Malaria is endemic to the
northern part of Namibia, with transmission most likely from November through June. Speak
with a doctor for advice regarding prophylactics for malaria and other recommended
inoculations. Bring an epi-kit if you are allergic to bee stings. Snakes, ticks, spiders and scorpions
are in the area as well but encounters are extremely rare. Snakes can be seen most often in the
summer and there are a number of venomous varieties, though again, chance of encounter is low.
Personal Security
Namibia is a reasonably safe country, however walking alone at night is not recommended. Theft
is not common at CCF as long as reasonable precautions are taken, such as locking up valuables.
Disease
Diseases present in southern Africa include malaria, typhoid fever, cholera, dengue fever, tick bite
fevers, polio, trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.
Volunteers are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites, which can transmit may
diseases. Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, socks, and insect repellent, especially during
the dusk and dawn hours when these insects are most active. See Section 11 ‘Health Information’
for advice and inoculation recommendations.
18
Medical Conditions of Special Concern
For your health and safety, please make sure to disclose any known medical conditions to
Earthwatch and CCF staff. Most medical problems or physical limitations can be accommodated,
but volunteers should discuss any conditions with a doctor and with Earthwatch before a
decision is made. CCF is 45 minutes from the nearest hospital/doctor, so while most health issues
can be accommodated, it is preferable that volunteers are fit and in reasonably good health.
Condition
Allergies
Back or neck
problems
Claustrophobia
or poor
eyesight
Physical
limitations
Concerns and Precautions
Those with known allergies to dust, grasses, mammals (dogs, cats, horses, etc.),
plants or insects should bring appropriate medications in order to participate
on this project. Those with severe bee-sting allergies should bring an epi-kit.
Those with chronic or constant back or neck pain should be aware that several
hours a day might be spent in a four-wheel-drive vehicle on rugged terrain.
Volunteers coming in August will help with CCF’s annual waterhole wildlife
survey, which involves a 24-hour work period from a blind. Volunteers on the
August team should not suffer from claustrophobia and should have good
eyesight, stamina and the ability to remain in a relatively small space for 24
hours. Those with back pain, arthritis, etc. may want to join a different team.
Volunteers with physical limitations should be aware that the work involved
generally requires a reasonable level of mobility.
11. HEALTH INFORMATION
See www.internationalsos.com for information on the current health conditions in Namibia. At
the homepage, enter Earthwatch’s member identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select
Resource” choose “English Country Guide,” and then select Namibia from the list.
Routine Immunizations
All volunteers should make sure to have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT
(diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (if you have
not already had chicken pox). Please be sure your tetanus shot is current.
Project Inoculations
The following are recommendations only. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each
volunteer. Note that health conditions around the world are constantly changing, so keep
informed and consult your physician, a local travel health clinic, the US Center for Disease
Control (www.cdc.gov), the World Health Organization (www.who.int), International SOS (see
above), and/or the resources in Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources’ for the latest health information for
travelers. Please consult your physician for guidance on inoculations if you intend to travel to
other parts of the country.
Typhoid
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Yellow Fever
Rabies
These inoculations are recommended for health reasons.
There is no risk of yellow fever in southern Africa, but if traveling from a country
or region where it is endemic, a Certificate of Vaccination is required.
Volunteers may wish to consider rabies vaccination since they will be in close
proximity and possibly in contact with cheetahs and the guard dogs. Speak with
your doctor about immunization. See below for further information.
19
Other Advice / Information
•
Malaria: Chloroquine resistant malaria is endemic in central and northern Namibia. Consult a
doctor or travel health professional for advice on prophylactics for malaria.
•
Rabies: You are encouraged to speak with your doctor about rabies vaccination, as you will be
around cheetahs and guard dogs and rabies does occur in Namibia. The rabies pre-exposure
vaccination consists of three doses over a 28-day period. Please be sure to consult your
physician or travel health clinic well in advance to ensure you have time for the full
vaccination series. If you have previously been vaccinated, you must have a medical
professional check your antibody levels; a booster shot may be required. Rabies is a fatal
disease. Treatment after rabies exposure requires immediate care (within 24 hours). Preexposure vaccination does not eliminate the need for post-exposure medical attention and
treatment, but it does provide additional protection against the disease in the event of a delay
in treatment. In addition, any bites or scratches should be immediately and thoroughly
washed with soap and clean water and a topical povidone-iodine solution or ethanol, and
reported to the Team Leader.
•
Tuberculosis: The WHO estimates that one-third of the world’s population is infected with the
bacterium (M.tuberculosis) that causes tuberculosis (TB). Incidence of tuberculosis is higher in
developing countries, particularly in Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. In
general, approximately 10% of persons infected with M. tuberculosis are at risk for developing
active TB during their lifetimes. TB is considered highly treatable with medications that are of
relatively low toxicity and cost. Volunteers returning from developing countries are
encouraged to have a (PPD)-tuberculin skin test to screen for potential infection.
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS
PLEASE SEE THE PACKING CHECKLIST AT THE BACK OF THIS BRIEFING AND
REMEMBER TO TAKE YOUR BRIEFING WITH YOU ON YOUR EXPEDITION.
General Considerations
Volunteers should pack light. Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your
own and check with your specific airlines for limitations. Note that lost luggage is a recurrent
problem. Windhoek International Airport does send bags to CCF and they usually arrive within
the next day or two. Regardless, make sure to carry medicine, personal essentials and an extra set
of field clothes in carry-on hand luggage so that you will not be uncomfortable or incapacitated
should your baggage take several days to catch up with you.
Volunteers are occasionally asked to bring supplies needed by CCF if they have space in their
luggage. Please contact info@cheetah.org if you are willing to assist with this.
Weather Considerations
Please take weather conditions into consideration when packing for your expedition. More
detailed climate information can be found in Section 10 ‘Project Conditions.’ Below is guidance for
packing during the summer and winter. At other times a combination of these seasons may be
experienced so please pack accordingly.
20
Summer Teams (November-March)
•
•
•
Expect hot days (up to 100°F/38°C) with cool nights and occasional rain and thunderstorms;
insects are more prevalent
Pack primarily summer clothes, but also a pair of long pants for fieldwork and a light jacket
or sweatshirt for cool nights
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, a water bottle, a lightweight rain jacket and insect repellent
Winter Teams (June-August)
•
•
Expect cool, sunny days and cold nights that may get down to freezing (average
temperatures of 45-70°F/7-21°C)
Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, a sun hat and a water bottle
Cultural Considerations
It is not appropriate to show excessive skin in Namibian culture, and it is CCF policy that staff
and volunteers may not wear bikini tops, cropped tops, small tank tops, low cut hipsters, short
shorts, etc. T-shirts and shorts at least mid-thigh in length are fine. In town and when visiting
other farms, dress is more conservative; women may wear casual trousers, medium length skirts
or dresses, while men should wear button-down shirts and casual trousers.
Essential Items
Make sure to bring your Earthwatch Expedition Briefing with you! It includes essential
information to which you may need to refer during your expedition, as well as during your
journey to and from the rendezvous site. There will be farm work with animals as well as survey
work on adjacent properties. Both tend to be dirty so it is important to bring several sets of work
clothes that you do not mind ruining (e.g. tearing on thorns). A sturdy pair of waterproof work
boots with tough soles is essential. Trails and scrubland are scattered with thorns and spikes fallen
from acacia trees. These can be over three centimeters long and lodge in the soles of your boots.
Please see the Expedition Packing Checklist for a complete list of what you will need to take
with you. You are encouraged to go through the list and mark off each required item right before
you leave for your expedition.
21
13. RECOMMENDED READING
Please read Cheetah: The Research in the appendix of this briefing. This document was
prepared by the Principal Investigator and Earthwatch and explains the research conducted
through this project as well as some results to date. Additionally, below are a number of articles
for those interested in further preparing for the expedition. Some may be available online and/or
through popular vendors. See Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources’ for suggested vendor websites.
•
Connif, R. December, 1999. Cheetahs: Ghosts of the Grasslands. National Geographic Vol. 196,
No. 6.
•
Raffaele, P. September, 1999. To Save Cheetah. Readers Digest.
•
January, 1999. Cheetah Survival on Namibian Farmlands. Wildlife and Conservation.
•
Hawthorne, P. April, 2000. Cheetahs on the Run. TIME USA (available online at
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,996741,00.html).
•
Butler, V. Fall, 1999. Cheetahs: The Race for Their Lives. Defenders of Wildlife.
•
April, 2000. Heroes for the Planet. TIME USA.
•
October, 2000. Cats and Dogs in Namibia. Africa – Environment and Wildlife. Vol. 8, No. 9.
•
Du Trout, J. October, 2000. Cheetah Never Prosper. Maxim.
•
Mott, M. March, 2004. Fierce Dogs Protect Livestock. National Geographic (available online at
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/03/0303_040303_cheetahs.html).
•
Prest, M.J. November, 2004. Rescuing Cheetahs, Helping People. The Chronicle of Philanthropy
(available online at http://philanthropy.com/free/articles/v17/i04/04000401.htm).
•
Beardsall, J. April, 2005. Survival of the Fastest. The Daily Telegraph, UK.
•
Netting, J.F. March, 2005. Discover Dialogue: Conservationist Laurie Marker. Discover
Magazine. Vol. 26, No. 03 (available online at http://www.discover.com/issues/mar05/departments/discover-dialogue/).
•
Kiddle, J. May, 2006. Cheating the Odds. The Scotsman Magazine, UK (available online at
http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/magazine.cfm?id=657402006).
•
October, 2005. Cats and Dogs Work Together. SkyNews (available online at
http://www.sky.com/skynews/video/videoplayer/0,,31200-cheetah_p837,00.html#).
•
May, 2005. Cheetahs Losing Out on Survival Race. Interview with Laurie Marker. CNN/IBN.
•
Mauney, G. 2005/2006. Putting Research into Action - Improving Life for Namibians.
Conservation and the Environment (available online at
http://www.travelnews.com.na/index.php?fArticleId=794).
Progress Reports
Each Earthwatch Institute-supported project submits a report on the past year’s research and
results to Earthwatch. The most recent field report for this project may be available online
through www.earthwatch.org/expeditions/marker.html. CCF also creates annual reports which
can be found online at www.cheetah.org, by clicking on “Links and Resources” followed by
“Progress Reports.”
22
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD
The nearest medical care and pharmacy are in Otjiwarongo, 44 kilometers (27 miles) away. Major
medical problems must be treated in Windhoek, a 3.5-hour drive away. A vehicle is always
available for transport to the hospital and an ambulance can be called for major emergencies.
CCF also has an airstrip on which planes and helicopters can land, as well as a veterinary clinic
and veterinary technicians who can treat minor injuries. If there is an emergency at home which
requires a volunteer to leave the expedition early, staff can arrange for a transport company to
bring the volunteer directly from CCF to Windhoek International Airport. Alternatively, the
volunteer could be transported to Otjiwarongo in a CCF vehicle from where they would be
assisted in catching a taxi to Windhoek. These arrangements would be at the volunteer’s expense.
Safety Certified
Staff
Nearest Medical
Facility
Dr. Bruce Brewer is a trained medic; Dr. Laurie Marker and Bonnie
Schumann are trained in emergency First Aid.
Medi-Clinic in Otjiwarongo (provides professional, well-equipped care)
Tel: 067-3033323 (within Namibia), +264-67-3033323 (outside Namibia)
Web: http://www.otjiwarongomc.co.za
Distance: 27 mi/44 km (45-minute drive from CCF)
15. HELPFUL RESOURCES
CCF Website
•
http://www.cheetah.org
Passport and Visa Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
Embassies around the world: http://www.embassyworld.com
For Japanese citizens: http://www.rainbowt.jp/travel/visa_top.html
For Australian citizens: https://www.passports.gov.au and
http://www.dfat.gov.au/visas/index.html
Passport Visa Express (for US citizens): www.passportvisasexpress.com
The Visaservice: http://www.visaservice.co.uk
Thames Consular Services Ltd: http://www.visapassport.com
Travel Guidebooks and Booksellers
•
•
•
•
Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Rough Guide: http://travel.roughguides.com
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com
Barnes and Noble: http://www.bn.com
Travel Agencies and Advice
•
•
•
•
World Travel Guide: http://www.worldtravelguide.com
UK Foreign Office travel advice: http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel
Third World Traveler: http://www.thirdworldtraveler.com/Travel/Travel_Links.html
Esplanade Tours (specializes in southern Africa): http://esplanadetours.com
160 Commonwealth Ave Suite L3
Boston, MA 02116 USA
Tel: 617-266-7465
23
•
•
•
•
Toll free in the US: 1-800-426-5492 or 1-800-628-4893
Fax: 617-262-9829
Email: info@esplanadetours.com
Democracy Travel (contact Jean S. West, Assistant Manager)
4818 MacArthur Blvd NW
Washington DC 20007
Tel: 202 965 7200 or 866-557-9968 (toll free US and Canada)
Fax: 202 342 0471
Email: jean@democracytravel.com
STA Travel (contact Angie Kurtz or Chris Chappell and mention that you will be going on an
Earthwatch Expedition): http://www.statravel.com
36 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
Tel: +1 415 391-8407
Email: sfo@statravel.com
STA Travel (UK): http://www.statravel.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 792800
Fax: +44 (0) 1865 792911
Email: manager.oxford@statravel.co.uk
Quote code: EWE01/02
Wexas International (Europe): http://www.wexas.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7581 8761
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7581 7679
Email: southern@wexas.com
Quote code: EWE01/02
Airline/Airport Resources
•
•
Flight comparison tools: http://www.bookingbuddy.com and http://www.1800-fly.com
Airport codes worldwide: http://www.logisticsworld.com/airports.asp
Country Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Country information from around the world: http://www.countryreports.org
National Geographic Map Machine: http://plasma.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine
US State Department: http://www.state.gov
Time worldwide with GMT/UTC: http://www.worldtimeserver.com
Currency converter: http://www.xe.com
Electrical current converter: http://kropla.com/electric2.htm
Telephone dialing codes: http://kropla.com/dialcode.htm
Online unit conversions: http://www.onlineconversion.com
Worldwide weather: http://www.wunderground.com or http://www.tutiempo.net/en
ATM locator: http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp or
http://www.mastercard.com/atmlocator/index.jsp
Health Information
•
•
•
•
Travel health website: http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov
Tel: +1 800 311-3435 or +1 888 232-3228
World Health Organization: http://www.who.int
The Travel Doctor: http://www.tmvc.com.au
24
APPENDIX
CHEETAH: THE RESEARCH
The following information was taken from the research proposal submitted by the Principal
Investigator to Earthwatch Institute. Included is a description of the research conducted through
this project, some results to date, and other information regarding the accomplishments of the
project and the staff. Specific details regarding research sites, methods, etc. is subject to change
slightly from year to year and such changes may not be incorporated into this document.
BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES, AND METHODS
Background
The cheetah was once found on four different continents and was one of the most widespread of
all land mammals. Today, however, wild cheetahs exist on only two continents and are declining
throughout their range. Loss of habitat, declining prey bases and competition with livestock
continue to take a heavy toll on this species’ population. At the turn of the 20th century,
approximately 100,000 cheetahs were found in at least 44 countries throughout Africa and Asia
(Myers 1975). But nowadays the world’s cheetah population is estimated at 12,000 to 15,000
animals in 24 to 26 African countries and less than 100 animals in Iran (Kraus and Marker-Kraus
1991, 1996). Viable populations are found in less than half of the countries where cheetahs still
exist. All populations are listed in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species
of Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix I and classified as Vulnerable or Endangered by The World
Conservation Union (IUCN) (CITES 1984, 1992).
The majority of Africa’s cheetahs are found outside of protected areas, surviving on agricultural
lands and often in conflict with human and livestock interests (Kraus and Marker-Kraus 1991,
Marker-Kraus et al. 1996). Cheetahs may not be able to maintain viable populations in most
protected areas because of increased competition with other large predators (Caro 1987,
Morsbach 1987, Mills 1991, Laurenson 1991, Caro 1995), yet minimal work on cheetah
conservation, research and education has been conducted outside of protected areas (Marker and
Dickman 2003a).
The largest free-ranging population of cheetahs is found in Namibia (Marker-Kraus and Kraus
1991, Marker-Kraus et al. 1996, Nowell 1996); however, during the 1980s their numbers were
reduced by half. This left less than 3,000 animals (Morsbach 1987), with 95% living on commercial
livestock farmland covering 275,000 square kilometers in the country’s north-central region
(Morsbach 1987, Marker-Kraus and Kraus 1990, Marker-Kraus et al. 1996). Considered locally
abundant by some Namibians, significant declines in the population continue as farmers
indiscriminately capture and remove a large number of cheetahs as “pests.” Some farmers
perceive cheetahs as having a severe negative economic impact on their livestock and wild game
industries. These attitudes must be reversed if there is hope for saving this endangered species.
The survival of the Namibian cheetah is in the hands of approximately 1,000 commercial farmers
and their attitudes towards integrating cheetah conservation efforts into farm management.
In addition, cheetah breed poorly in captivity worldwide, with imports of wild cheetah from
Namibia sustaining breeding programs (Marker-Kraus 1997, Marker 2002). If the wild population
25
in Namibia continues to decline and habitat conservation efforts in Africa fail for this species, the
cheetah could face extinction, as captive breeding efforts do not currently provide a safeguard
and national parks may not be able to sustain healthy populations. Complicating conservation
efforts further is the cheetah’s lack of genetic variation, which makes the species more susceptible
to ecological and environmental changes (O'Brien et al. 1983, 1985, 1987).
CCF has developed various programs with the goal of studying and conserving the cheetah. The
programs, objectives and methods used by CCF and Earthwatch volunteers are described below.
Biomedical Program
CCF will continue to monitor diseases in wild and captive cheetah populations. Disease
monitoring studies are conducted to evaluate and understand the prevalence of diseases in the
wild population. Gastritis and stress studies will continue to monitor the long-term effects of
captivity on cheetah health. CCF will also continue adding sperm collected from male cheetahs to
its genome resource bank (GRB). Both captive and wild-caught animals will be used for hormone
and behavioral studies.
In order to answer health and reproductive questions, data is obtained through medical workups on cheetah that have been caught opportunistically. The information collected is analyzed
with regard to the animal’s age, sex, and health, and environmental variables. Blood samples are
collected for analysis of overall health and disease studies in collaboration with Dr. Linda
Munson of the University of Davis in the US. Serum and EDTA samples are used for a complete
medical profile and blood counts, and serum is used for serology screening. Internationally,
cheetahs suffer from gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach that is caused by spiral bacteria.
Stress is implicated as one of the possible causes of this disease. Feces and blood are also
analyzed for stress hormones in collaboration with Drs. Linda Munson and Karen Terio and
cheetahs are endoscoped in order to collect gastric biopsies of captive and wild cheetahs. This
research will provide a greater understanding of the disease, and how it affects wild and captive
cheetahs. Feces are also analyzed for reproductive hormones.
Genetic analysis uses processed and frozen plasma, washed red and white cells and an
aseptically prepared skin biopsy. Samples are being analyzed in collaboration with Dr. Stephen
O’Brien of the National Cancer Institute in the US. Blood and skin samples will be used to extract
DNA from the population and micro satellites will be used to analyze the amount of genetic
variation. Collaborative reproductive studies at CCF are designed to learn more about the effects
of the thawing process on frozen cheetah sperm. Collected sperm is then used to contribute to a
genome resource bank. Reproductive studies are conducted in cooperation with Dr. Adrienne
Crosier and David Wildt from the Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo’s and the American
Association of Zoo’s Cheetah Species Survival Plan.
Ecological Genetics Program
The goal of CCF’s Ecological Genetics Program is to develop indirect censusing techniques to
provide consistent and reliable biological data. This data will aid in the development of a genetics
laboratory to provide support for the research and conservation endeavors necessary to save the
cheetah, by using modern molecular techniques. The National Cancer Institute Laboratory for
Genomic Diversity will provide their expertise for setting up the genetics laboratory at CCF and
will train staff in proper analysis techniques. Through the expertise of the CCF and the National
Cancer Institute the techniques developed will have further relevance for other large carnivores as
well as cheetahs throughout their African range. Once set up and successful in Namibia, the
expertise and laboratory will be used in cooperation with biologists working on cheetahs in other
range countries.
26
This research project will use DNA from scat retrieval and hair from scent marking areas
supported with camera trap mark-recapture to estimate cheetah census and follow census trends.
Over the past decade, promising new census and monitoring techniques have been developed
that have increased understanding of large carnivore biology in different habitat types. Although
many census techniques used for other species could be used for cheetahs, there has been no
calibration of their accuracy and reliability under African field conditions for cheetahs. Many of
these techniques require systematic field trials to determine their efficacy in terms of censusing
large carnivores.
Given the secretive nature of cheetahs, indirect census techniques using genetic analysis are likely
to be the only viable method of collecting useful population information. Indirect censusing relies
upon the detection of signs such as hair or feces, and has been used effectively to gain population
data for a wide range of species. Recent developments in the field of DNA analysis mean that
both hair and feces can be effectively utilized to extract DNA and provide some estimate of
population size in an area. The extent and patterns of genetic diversity were recently addressed
by CCF in an extensive and important survey that investigated questions of paternity, gene flow,
geographical patterns of genetic variation, and questions relating to cheetah behavioral ecology
(Marker 2002). The levels of relatedness among unrelated individuals and among individuals in
offspring and sibling groups of known individuals were calculated, and family groups were
confirmed by paternity analyses. This provided information on cheetah social behavior.
Developing techniques to extract and analyze DNA from feces and hair has enormous potential
for conducting accurate field census methods for cheetahs. These data will prove invaluable in
developing the most appropriate conservation strategies and management policies for cheetahs
on Namibian farmlands that can then be used throughout their ranges.
Habitat Restoration
This project aims to enhance the long-term survival of the cheetah and other key indigenous
wildlife species on Namibian farmlands by developing a habitat improvement program that is
both ecologically sound and economically viable. CCF staff and volunteers will test and monitor
methods of harvesting thickened (encroached) bush and design a scheme that is appropriate for
farmland habitat and is beneficial to the landowners. CCF will develop an international market
for bush-based products that assures the long-term sustainability of appropriate levels of harvest.
Over the past five years, CCF and other stakeholders have conducted extensive research into
viable methods of bush eradication. The culmination of this research has resulted in a proposal to
develop entrepreneurial bush clearing enterprises and a bush processing plant, which will
manufacture fuel logs for foreign export. The development of these economic enterprises will
allow the conversion of encroaching bush into clean burning wood fuel, marketed in the name of
the cheetah. To determine the viability of such projects, CCF will develop a small scale, but
economically sustainable, pilot project that will implement bush harvesting, ecological
monitoring and fire log manufacturing and export. If successful, the project could be expanded to
a regional or national scale targeting cheetah habitat restoration, local job creation, reduction of
desertification and global ecological education.
CCF’s ongoing studies will also investigate the effects of clearing on vegetation species
composition and structural diversity. Cattle grazing camps are the primary study sites for this
research. Each camp will be treated as an experimental replicate, and a number of fixed bush
monitoring plots will be placed within the camp boundaries. Study sites will be chosen after
maps of the vegetation have been created using satellite imaging and analysis of aerial
photographs. These aerial and satellite images will also be verified on the ground. Habitat types
will be lumped into up to 12 different vegetation types based on species composition, size and
density of woody species. Satellite data will also yield up-to-date road, fence and waterhole
27
locations. There will be four to six grazing camp sites, each of which will be separated into
experimental and control areas. Experimental areas will be cleared using hand tools and cut
materials will be removed from the site. These study units will also provide experimental
locations for other research projects.
Cheetah Census
Cheetahs are difficult to census using conventional techniques. They are largely non-territorial,
very mobile and shy; they form local transitory hotspots, which are not representative of overall
density and may give a false impression of many cheetahs in an area; and they are cryptic, hard
to find, and occur in low densities (Bashir et al. 2004). Without quantitative data, it is impossible
to identify and address threats to the long-term survival of the cheetah and it is difficult to
influence national policy in favor of cheetah conservation, identify conservation priorities for the
cheetah, or assess the effectiveness of management action (Bashir et al. 2004). Building on longterm research on cheetahs in Namibia, this project will field test censusing methods using camera
trap mark-recapture and spoor (animal sign) tracking. Camera trapping and spoor tracking
results will be compared with known cheetah minimum density estimates that have been derived
from a 10-year radio-telemetry study conduced by CCF (Marker 2002). Consistent indirect
censusing techniques will provide accurate biological data to enhance cheetah conservation.
This project hypothesizes that camera trapping and spoor tracking can be used to successfully
determine a minimum cheetah density at a lower monetary and labor expense than the current
standard of mark-recapture studies. A censusing technique to estimate and monitor cheetah
abundance that is appropriate, repeatable, relatively cost-effective and precise is needed.
Estimates of abundance are vital for policy-making decisions. CCF intends to undertake parallel
camera trapping and spoor tracking surveys over 24 months.
Camera Trapping
Traditional mark-recapture studies use an artificial tag and the animal must be handled to
administer the tag. Using camera trapping, capture histories can be built that estimate capture
probabilities and thereafter, estimate cheetah numbers and densities using powerful capturerecapture models (White et al. 1982, Rexstad and Brunham 1991, Karanth 1995). Traps will be
placed for three months at a time in known cheetah areas, with several cameras within an
average cheetah home range. Camera trapping sessions will be conducted four times during a 24month period, beginning in August 2006.
The most promising areas for trapping cheetahs will be identified within the study area. Camera
trap points will be selected based on signs (spoors, feces, and known play trees) of cheetah
presence. These locations will be mapped and the GPS (Global Positioning System) coordinates of
each camera location will be recorded. Camera traps will be checked every other day to change
the film and to verify proper functioning. Periodically film canisters are sent to a professional
photographic shop to be developed and scanned into digital form. The digital images are then
reviewed and catalogued by the researchers. Cheetahs will be identified by body size and
genitals as well as by comparing spot patterns (Chelysheva 2005). Cheetah density and
abundance estimations will be provided through statistical analysis.
Spoor Tracking
Spoor frequency, as a measure of actual density, has been used successfully for measuring
populations of several low-density large carnivores in Namibia (Stander 1998, Funston et al.
2001). It has been employed mostly in conservation areas, thus its ability to estimate free-ranging,
wild populations is poorly understood. It also lacks evaluation against a true density estimate.
28
The evaluation of spoor frequency against a true population estimate is a part of this study and
will be conducted in conjunction with hair snare and camera trapping research.
Spoor tracking will be conducted on a route extending over 40 kilometers, traversed on a weekly
basis. Remote camera traps will be placed alongside or close to the route, to aid spoor ascription
to particular individuals and to provide a more direct abundance or density estimate (Fabiano
2005). Upon detection of a spoor, the vehicle will stop and the following will be recorded: the
species, number of spoor, odometer, spoor direction, and closest camera. Cheetah spoor
frequency will be determined by dividing the number of kilometers by the number of samples of
fresh spoor (i.e. spoor that could be identified as being from cheetah and was made the day prior
to the tracking day), while cheetah density will be ascertained by dividing the total number of
spoor by total transect length. Data will be entered into an Excel spreadsheet. Results from this
study will be compared with remote camera trapping density estimates, which are considered to
be more precise and accurate.
Hair Snares
DNA will be extracted from feces and analyzed as another indirect census technique. Sniffing
dogs will be used to aid with the identification and location of feces. Hair snares in conjunction
with lures (i.e. scent) will be placed in strategic locations to collect hairs. Hair lures will be placed
at marking trees used by male cheetahs to mark territory and by females to communicate
reproduction status. A brush will be used to collect hair, which will be placed into labeled bags. A
database for record keeping will be developed. Due to the fact that different animals may rub
against the snare, proper hair identification will be done at the genetics laboratory. Hair will be
washed to remove other unwanted particles and dried and stored for DNA extraction. The DNA
may be profiled in order to estimate population size (abundance or density).
Trials with captive cheetahs are currently underway to develop a scent lure that prompts scentmarking behavior in cheetahs and encourages them to rub against a lure. This technique has
worked well with other species, and although initial studies indicate that captive cheetahs
respond only to certain lures, it is critical to conduct field trials to determine whether wild
cheetahs respond in the same way, and whether attention from other carnivores such as
leopards could disrupt field data collected. The establishment of spoor stations at lure sites will
allow CCF to determine visitation rates to the sites, while positioning camera traps at a subset of
sites will allow them to determine which species approached the lures, and correlate that
information with hair collected. Results from these studies will be compared with the
abundance or density estimate determined using remote camera traps.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Programs
CCF has developed three major programs to address human-wildlife conflict. The first is
fundamentally new while the remaining two are ongoing. These programs address CCF’s
objective of reducing cheetah removal and farmer-wildlife conflict through empowerment and by
providing alternative livestock management practices.
First, the project aims to conduct training programs for emerging farmers to help them
understand how to live with cheetahs. Namibia, as other countries in Africa, is undergoing land
redistribution. Some new farmers lack the knowledge necessary to prevent livestock-predator
conflict. Thus, CCF has made these farmers its target audience for the next three years and will
conduct integrated management courses to train and empower them on different aspects related
to farming (e.g. sustainability) as well as on how to live with predators, particularly cheetahs.
CCF will host 12 one-week training courses, which will include integrated livestock, wildlife,
natural resource management, biodiversity and conservation topics, with 30 participants in each
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class. Questionnaires will be used both pre- and post-course to identify the level of learning and
that concepts are actually understood and implemented by farmers.
Conservancies are the primary target of the farmer training program. Each conservancy selects
members to attend the weeklong workshop, who will share the newly attained knowledge with
their communities. Using the government and current CCF networks and farmer databases for
the country, plus advertisement of courses, farmers will be selected to attend the courses to
ensure that there is representation from across the country. CCF staff also attends agriculture
shows in both communal and commercial farming areas, to promote the training courses and
identify interested candidates. These events present an opportunity to raise conservation
awareness and promote good livestock management practices that are predator friendly.
Next, the Livestock Guarding Dog (LSGD) Program and placement of dogs will continue.
Through the monitoring of the LSGD Program CCF has concluded that guarding dogs have
provided an efficient alternative method to reduce livestock losses to cheetahs and other
predators. Greater awareness of the program has also led to an increase in requests by farmers
who experience livestock predator problems to provide them dogs. Therefore, CCF aims to
increase its breeding and placement program, with focuses on emerging and resettled farmers.
New blood lines and cross-breeding with other more environmentally adapted dog species will
continue.
Finally, project staff will continue working on human-wildlife conflict issues with other
conservation organizations and conservancies as it has for many years. CCF’s Executive Director
Dr. Laurie Marker has been serving as the chairperson of the CANAM. This institution provides
an ideal platform to exchange and disseminate conservation and management principles that are
sustainable, thus influencing policy development. Through CCF’s collaboration with CANAM,
Cheetah Country Beef will be launched over the next year and CCF will be involved in setting up
monitoring systems for conservancy farmers who will be participating in the program. CCF will
continue to work closely with these institutions to promote carnivore conservation while
enhancing agriculture returns.
RESULTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Benefits of the Research
CCF works with a variety of groups and individuals on national and international levels. On a
national level, the stakeholders who benefit from this project consist of the government
(specifically the Ministry of Environment and Tourism), farmers, the Ministry of Basic Education
Sport and Culture, Polytechnic of Namibia, University of Namibia, commercial and communal
conservancies, the general public, and the private sector and other conservation organizations.
International stakeholders consist of captive breeding facilities, zoos, and international
organizations working in the conservation of carnivores and endangered species in particular
IUCN, the Cheetah Global Forum, international universities and Earthwatch. All the above
stakeholders are important to the cheetah’s cause, and are considered beneficiaries of any further
research.
Sharing Results with the Local Community
Different platforms are used to disseminate the project’s research findings. CCF publishes a
biannual newsletter and has developed a comprehensive mailing list database. In addition, local
newspapers, namely the prominent daily papers Namibian and New Era, have published articles
on different CCF activities. Various interviews and documentaries were broadcast though the
Namibian Broadcasting Corporation’s radio and television services. Articles which entailed CCF
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activities were featured in local farmers’ magazines and newsletters. Public displays at industrial
and agricultural shows have also been used to disseminate information.
Implications for the Local Educational and Economic Communities
In addition to the farmers’ training, each month one school/youth group comprised of about 24
children/young adults will attend an overnight camp program hosted at CCF. CCF education
officers and staff will also visit schools (mainly grades 5-12) and nature/environmental clubs,
where multiple presentations will be held to teach the basics of biodiversity, livestock and wildlife
management and sustainable land use. These offsite presentations will reach an additional 6,700
children and teachers.
The CCF education program not only creates awareness on the cheetah’s plight, but also
promotes alternative methods of livestock-predator management. Farming and tourism remain
the backbone of the national economy, and have a direct impact on the livelihoods of the nation.
CCF continues to promote Otjiwarongo as the Cheetah Capital of the World in order to generate
tourism interest for the town and the Otjozondjupa region. In collaboration with MEATCO and
CANAM, CCF’s Cheetah Country Beef initiative aims at providing price premiums on beef to
environmentally friendly farmers.
CCF’s education programs and farmers’ training empower the local communities to better
manage their livestock and coexist with wildlife. Approximately 15,000 learners participate in the
outreach education program each year, and over 1,000 students visit the CCF Education Centre
annually for weekend environmental education courses. Approximately 300 communal farmers
have participated in the CCF integrated livestock management training courses hosted since 2004.
Over 15 student interns, enrolled at the University of Namibia and the Polytechnic of Namibia,
have conducted their six-month internships at CCF since 2003. CCF has provided employment for
the local community with a total of 47 CCF staff positions and another 30 bush harvesters.
Impacts on Conservation Efforts and Public Policy
CCF programs have contributed to conservation efforts in numerous ways. First, direct
involvement with farmers as stakeholders has influenced and changed their tolerance, attitudes
and perception towards cheetahs. Secondly, the CCF education and training programs create
general awareness on cheetah and environmental conservation. The partnerships and networks
created among various stakeholders involved in conservation have facilitated information
sharing, decision making, and a collective conservation effort.
Through applied conservation initiatives and solid science, CCF has contributed towards public
policy by providing recommendations to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism for the
management of cheetahs in captive facilities, as well as providing guidance in new national
legislation for wildlife that includes cheetahs and other predators. CCF has submitted its predator
education curriculum for inclusion in the national education subjects at grades one, five and six to
the National Institute for Education Development.
Contributing to Issues of Sustainability
CCF activities strive to promote sustainability within the social, economic and natural
environment dimensions which have a direct relation with the local community. As mentioned
earlier, the Cheetah Country Beef project aims to provide a price premium to environmentally
friendly farmers. This initiative has been through thorough financial analysis, and in 2006 a
business plan was commissioned by the project partner, MEATCO. The plan identifies the project
as breaking even in its second year after being launched and completely self-sustaining thereafter.
Such an initiative will promote alternative livestock and wildlife management practices in an
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ecologically friendly manner. Farmers certified under this scheme are expected to follow good
farm management practices by adhering to an agreement with conditions restricting
indiscriminate removal of predators.
Additionally, CCF’s Bushblok initiative aims to reclaim rangeland productivity by reducing
excess bush encroachment. Sustainability is achieved through different ways. First, restoration of
the rangeland creates ideal habitat for the cheetah and the local wildlife. Secondly, habitat
restoration provides an economic benefit through the sales of Bushblok and employment creation.
The use of livestock guarding dogs secures sustainability by protecting farmers’ interest in
reducing livestock losses.
LITERATURE CITED
Bartels, P. 2001. Optimising cheetah conservation action through efficient biomaterial banking
and use. In: Global Cheetah Action Plan Review, 3: 33-34.
Bashir, S., Daly, B., Durant, S.M., Forster, H., Grisham, J., Marker, L., Wilson, K. and Friedman, Y.
(editors). 2004. Global Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) Monitoring Workshop. Final workshop report.
Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (SSC/ IUCN). Endangered Wildlife Trust.
Chelysheva, E.V. 2005. A new approach to cheetah identification. In: Cat News, P. Jackson (ed),
41:27-29.
Deklerk, J. 2004. Bush encroachment in Namibia; report on phase 1 of the bush encroachment research,
monitoring and management project. John Meinert Printing. Ministry of Environment and
Tourism, Namibia.
Ezekiel, F. 2006. Calibrating spoor density to radio telemetry cheetah density. Master’s Thesis
(Environment Development), University of Natal.
Funston, P.J., Herrmann, E., Babupi, P., Kruiper, H., Jaggers, H., Masule, K. and Kruiper, K. 2001.
Spoor frequency estimates as a method of determining lion and other large mammal densities
in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. In: Carnivore Conservation, Gittleman, J.L., Funk, S.M.,
Macdonald, D. and Wayne, R.K. (eds). Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, U.K., pp.36 –
52.
Karanth, K.U., and M.E. Sunquist. 1995. Prey selection by tiger, leopard and dhole in tropical
forests. Journal of Animal Ecology 64.
Rexstad, E. and Burnham, K.P. 1991. User’s guide for interactive program capture abundance estimation
of closed animals populations. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
Stander, P.E. 1998. Spoor counts as indices of large carnivore populations: the relationship
between spoor frequency, sampling effort and true density. Journal of Applied Ecology, 35: 378385.
White, G.C., Anderson, D.R., Burnham, K.P., and Otis, D.L. 1982. Capture-recapture and removal
methods for sampling closed populations. Los Alamos National Laboratory Publications, LA8787-NERP. Los Alamos, NM, USA.
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EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST
Essential Items
This Expedition Briefing, which contains emergency contact information
Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary and credit cards in case the originals are lost
or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents
Visa and/or passport (if necessary)
Certification of inoculation (if necessary)
Required Items
Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork
Lightweight, quick drying, long-sleeved shirts
Lightweight, quick drying pants
Hiking boots or other sturdy shoes with ankle support and thick soles to protect against thorns
Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
Heavy duty work gloves
Sunglasses with a strap
Clothing/Footwear for Leisure
Shorts
T-shirts or quick–drying, lightweight short-sleeved shirts
Sandals and/or tennis shoes
One nicer set of clothing for visiting other farms and/or to keep clean for after the expedition
Light rain jacket for summer (October-April)
Warm clothes/layers for cool to freezing nights and early mornings
Warm gloves and a warm hat (June-August)
Field Supplies
Daypack/Rucksack
Insect repellent spray (October-April)
Sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 or higher
Water bottle(s) able to hold at least one liter
Binoculars (10x40 are best for viewing wildlife, though less powerful binoculars would work)
Watch with a second hand
Headlamp and/or flashlight with extra batteries and extra bulb
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Personal Supplies
Note: Towels, mosquito nets and bed linens will be supplied.
Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are recommended)
Personal medical kit (e.g. personal medications with copies of any prescriptions, anti-diarrhea
pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers, allergy kit, etc.)
Warm sleeping bag for the overnight wildlife survey (August team only)
Spending money (see Other Advice / Information in Section 9)
Camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery and adapter plug for charging cameras
Travel alarm clock (battery operated or wind-up)
Optional Items
Drybag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect equipment such as camera from dust,
humidity and water
Earplugs
Field or travel guides for Namibia
Pocket knife (e.g. Leatherman) packed in your checked baggage, NOT your carry-on
Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for “washing” hands while in the field)
Personal reading material, art supplies, journal, etc. for travel and down time
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