Offsite Electives

The Wildlife Forensic Academy provides both study abroad courses and internships. Internships can be based at the academy or at partner organisations such as wildlife clinics and rehabilitation organisations. The internship are designed on a individual student basis and it is best to contact us to discuss opportunities. 

The two week wildlife veterinary forensics study abroad course is designed specifically for Wildlife Veterinarians, Veterinarians, and Veterinary Professionals and offers an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your expertise in Wildlife Forensics. Blending in-depth training with immersive educational tourism, this program provides a truly unique African experience. Gain essential skills in wildlife forensics while exploring South Africa's rich biodiversity, and take your professional knowledge to new heights in one of the world's most exciting conservation environments.

Objectives:

• Build foundational knowledge through theoretical lectures, understanding the frameworks in wildlife forensics and crime investigation;
• Apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios through hands-on demonstrations, exercises, and summative assessments;
• Gain a holistic understanding of wildlife forensic work by exploring local ecology, environmental contexts, and cultural influences on wildlife crimes;
• Recognize the interconnectedness of human-wildlife conflict;
• Explore historical cultural influences on wildlife conservation and criminal activities, and develop awareness of governmental and non-governmental organizations in wildlife protection;
• Acquire survival skills, including knowledge of firearms and projectiles relevant to veterinary practitioners dealing with situations involving weapons;
• Acquire skills in conducting forensic necropsies, including hands-on experience in entomology and decomposition stages to estimate time of death and link suspects to crimes through insect identification and carcass documentation;
• Demonstrate understanding of wildlife veterinary pharmacology, emphasizing practical applications in the field, and gain comprehensive knowledge of toxicology related to wildlife crimes, identifying threats to biodiversity;
• Acquire knowledge of wildlife crimes and illegal wildlife trade, addressing issues like poaching and trafficking, and develop practical skills in crime scene processing, survival techniques, and evidence collection;
• Enhance proficiency in legal aspects associated with wildlife crime.

This course is for you if:

• You are a veterinarian, veterinary assistant and/ or veterinary science student
• A professional involved in wildlife protection, game reserve management, wildlife conservation, and animal handling
• A student exploring veterinary science as a potential career path and seeking greater insight into the field
• We welcome participants from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about animal care and the application of science in the pursuit of justice.

Program: 

This training includes the following:

• Introduction to Wildlife Crime, Poaching and Illegal Trade;
• Marine Wildlife Poaching;
• Wildlife Forensic Postmortem Training;
• Basic Introduction to Firearms and Projectiles Utilized in the Field of Wildlife Veterinary Medicine;
• Role of Forensics;
• Forensic Traces (Detection and Collection);
• Crime Scene Management;
• Crime Scene Preservation;
• Forensic Photography;
• Forensic Entomology;
• Wildlife Anatomy: Handling and First Aid;
• Forensic Veterinary Pathology and Toxicology;
• Human-Wildlife Conflict and Illegal Wildlife Trade;
• Hands-on Experience Laboratory Training:
  • Human Behaviour at the Crime Scene;
  • Courtroom Training;
• Anti-poaching, Tracking and Basic Survival Skills;
• Injured and Poisoned Animal Management;

Educational Touristic Activities:

• San Cultural Experience;
• Iziko Museum;
• Marine Conservation and Research;
• Tour of Cape Point and Table Mountain;
• Cape Town Waterfront;
• Two Oceans Aquarium Educational Tour;
• Seabird and Raptor Rehabilitation Tour;
• Cheetah Outreach Educational Tour;
• Game Drive;
• There will also be a morning with surfing/sea kayaking/whale watching/ snorkelling with seals - weather permitting.
   

What You Will Learn:

Attendees enrolled in this course will delve into the intricate relationship between historical cultures and wildlife crimes, gaining insights into cultural influences on both wildlife conservation efforts and criminal activities. They will develop an awareness of governmental and non-governmental organizations involved in wildlife protection and rehabilitation, broadening their understanding of wildlife conservation ecosystems. The curriculum includes survival skills such as familiarity with firearms and projectiles relevant to veterinary practitioners encountering weapon-related cases, as well as forensic necropsy techniques for investigating deceased wildlife. 

Additionally, attendees will acquire knowledge in toxicology and pharmacology pertinent to wildlife veterinary practices, including the identification and practical application of drugs and toxins in the field. Proper crime scene management and processing techniques will be honed, encompassing skills in evidence collection, post-mortem examinations, and anti-poaching behaviours. Legal aspects of wildlife crimes will also be covered, including courtroom presentation, forensic photography, and the art of providing testimony in simulated courtroom scenarios, ensuring students are equipped to effectively communicate findings in legal and investigative contexts while understanding the nuances of evidence presentation and cross-examination.

Attendees will also participate in a range of educational visits and activities which will provide you with knowledge of the different organisations and initiatives actively working in conservation in South Africa as well as gaining a better understanding of South African culture. 

How You Will Learn:

A mix of lectures, demonstrations, flipped classroom and hands-on practical activities will be utilised.  In addition, education excursions will be integrated into programme to provide background context to South African wildlife, conservation and culture. 

Lectures
Theory, knowledge, understanding

Experimental Learning
Practice, problem solving, application

Educational Excursions
Context, background, culture

Educational Aims:

1. To present and enhance knowledge and practical skills in wildlife crime investigations and wildlife veterinary science.
2. To apply current forensic-, policing knowledge and skills to wildlife crime investigations including the criminal justice chain and recovery, analysis and interpretation of evidence.
3. Facilitate a knowledge exchange opportunity between local and international wildlife professionals. 

Learning Outcomes:

1. Establish foundational knowledge in wildlife forensics and crime investigation.
2. Apply theory in practical settings and assessments.
3. Understand wildlife forensic work, integrating local ecology and cultural influences.
4. Recognize and neutralize human-wildlife conflicts.
5. Investigate historical cultural impacts on conservation and crime, and roles of organizations.
6. Acquire survival skills for veterinary practitioners, including firearm knowledge.
7. Gain proficiency in conducting forensic necropsies and linking suspects to crimes.
8. Understand wildlife pharmacology and toxicology, focusing on practical applications and biodiversity threats.
9. Develop skills in addressing wildlife crimes and illegal trade, including evidence collection.
10. Enhance legal proficiency for courtroom presentation and testifying effectively. 

To observe and participate in exams and surgeries.

Externship to include exposure to the following: avian and aquatic medicine (water quality, necropsies, +/- immobilizations, +/- surgery, emergency stabilization, public health). Pending the duration of the externship- students would be required to pick a case study or animal to present on. 

Students are involved in both hospital and ambulatory appointments. They are allowed to assist with procedures and treatments under direct supervision of a veterinarian as deemed appropriate. Students are also able to scrub in for surgeries, assist with anesthesia and hospital patient care. Students with interest may also observe and assist in our equine and/or canine rehabilitation centers on site. Students are encouraged to join veterinarians on after hours emergencies both in the field an in the hospital. 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in wildlife medicine at Belize’s premier wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center! You'll work side-by-side with a qualified wildlife veterinarian, gaining hands-on experience in real clinical settings. 

From learning reptile medicine during a visit to an iguana rehabilitation center to participating in annual health exams of resident animals, this program offers deep immersion in veterinary care and wildlife conservation. 

Be part of rescue intake procedures, assist with treatments, surgeries, and anesthesia, and take part in practical sessions on safe animal handling, environmental enrichment, diagnostics, and more. 

Labs will challenge and inspire you with topics such as suture techniques, radiography, necropsy, comparative anatomy, parasitology, and blood analysis. 

Through engaging case-based discussions, you'll explore Wildlife Medicine, One Health, and the critical role of veterinarians in conservation. 

Theoretical sessions will build your foundation in natural history, anatomy, physiology, anesthesia, zoonosis, and zoo medicine. 

Clinical days include differential diagnostics, dose calculations, and therapy design, giving you the unique chance to live the life of a wildlife vet in action.

Embark on the ultimate wildlife veterinary adventure in the heart of Guatemala! 

Join forces with expert wildlife veterinarians at the country’s leading rescue and rehabilitation center, where you'll gain hands-on experience caring for incredible native species. 

Take part in clinical procedures from intake to recovery—administer injections, collect samples, assist in surgeries and treatments, and observe diagnostic practices firsthand. 

Dive deep into the world of neotropical primates, parrots, reptiles, and carnivores through engaging lectures and case-based discussions focused on Wildlife Medicine, One Health, and Conservation. 

Get practical training in animal handling, safe capture techniques, enrichment strategies, and husbandry, including feeding and behavioral observation. 

During your stay, you’ll also join the annual health checks for resident animals—an incredible chance to sharpen your skills in wildlife care and vet procedures. 

And to top it off? Experience a thrilling two-day journey to the iconic Tikal National Park, where ancient Mayan ruins meet rich jungle biodiversity for the ultimate archaeological and wildlife exploration!

Step into the extraordinary world of wildlife veterinary care with a hands-on program dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of over 120 cheetahs saved from the illegal wildlife trade. 

This immersive experience offers real-world opportunities to work closely with cheetahs and other species like caracals, gaining essential skills in husbandry, nutrition, and medical care. 

Participants may engage in veterinary procedures such as medical checks, blood draws, body condition scoring, frontline treatments, vaccinations, diagnostics, and more, as part of routine and preventative care. 

In-clinic responsibilities may include sample handling, data entry into cloud-based systems, and supporting veterinary operations. 

Daily husbandry duties involve meal preparation, feeding, fecal collection, enclosure cleaning, and occasionally caring for cubs, all crucial for maintaining animal health and wellbeing. 

Participants should be comfortable with carcass handling and meat preparation in the butchery. 

As part of the daily care team, you’ll also support cheetah-specific training, including voluntary procedures, enrichment, and cub socialization. 

Beyond animal care, enjoy a vibrant cultural day connecting with local communities and deepening your understanding of conservation’s broader impact.

Live the ultimate wildlife and veterinary experience in Malawi! 

Join a passionate team at Malawi’s leading wildlife rescue sanctuary and clinic, working alongside a qualified wildlife vet and gaining hands-on experience with some of Africa’s most iconic species. 

From annual health checks and rescue intakes to suture work, sample analysis, and patient monitoring, you'll be immersed in real-world veterinary care. 

Expand your skills further by assisting in domestic animal outreach through the LSCPA—treating livestock, taking part in spay and neuter programs, and supporting rural communities. 

Deepen your knowledge through expert-led lectures on wildlife health, including parasitology, primate medicine, emergency care, pharmacology, and remote capture techniques. 

Between fieldwork, unwind at the sanctuary with full-board accommodation, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the animals you’re helping. 

Cap off your adventure with a thrilling 2-day/1-night safari through the spectacular Liwonde National Park. 

This is more than just volunteering—it’s conservation, education, and adventure rolled into one unforgettable journey.

Embark on an unforgettable journey where adventure, learning, and conservation converge in a life-changing experience. 

Led by a highly experienced wildlife and domestic veterinarian with over 25 years in the field and game capture team, this immersive program offers you the rare opportunity to step into the world of professional wildlife management.

Learn expert darting techniques, handle specialized dart guns, and contribute directly to frontline conservation efforts, including rhino dehorning, DNA sampling, notching, and both individual and mass game captures. 

Each day brings new excitement—from thrilling game drives and guided bush walks to expert-led lectures on veterinary medicine, ethical game capture, helicopter safety, and the adrenaline-filled challenge of aerial darting.

 Beyond the hands-on work, unwind in comfortable safari-style tented accommodations with full-board meals, all set against a breathtaking landscape where wildlife roams freely. 

More than just observation, this is a chance to live the experience, gain invaluable skills, and make a real impact on the future of Africa’s wildlife.​

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in wildlife conservation, where you'll dive into hands-on experiences with expert veterinarians. 

For 10 days you will become a wildlife vet - shadowing a qualified wildlife vet with over 20 years experience. You'll assist with thrilling tasks like rhino dehorning and predator collaring, removing snares, treating wounds. translocating animals, and more - all while gaining firsthand insight into wildlife management. 

Guided bush walks will teach you how to identify animal tracks and signs, while you'll also have the unique opportunity to learn reptile medicine, diagnosing and treating reptiles, as well participating in calls out when occurring and snake handling.

As part of the program, you'll support a local domestic animal outreach clinic, providing vital care and gaining valuable experience in field operations. 

Throughout your journey, you’ll participate in a necropsy when available, deepening your understanding of wildlife health and disease management, and continue contributing to fieldwork and ongoing animal care. 

Your adventure will take you to the iconic destination of Kruger National Park, where you'll experience South Africa’s stunning wildlife and landscapes up close. 

At the Endangered Species Centre, you’ll learn about critical conservation and rehabilitation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species. 

You'll also have the chance to take part in game capture operations, learning key wildlife management techniques in the field. To top off your experience, you'll receive helicopter safety training and get the chance to dart animals from the air, offering a unique perspective on wildlife conservation.