Environmental volunteering in Cabo Verde

The generosity of nature is everywhere: in the sea, on land, and in the air. From the landscapes to the wildlife and flora, and even the small islands that have, over the years, maintained a spirit of gratitude reflected in their relationship with the environment and how they welcome travellers — the "morabeza", which expresses the love of life in every gesture.

In Cabo Verde, everything is about life. The seas serve as a kind of nursery for humpback whales, which choose the archipelago to reproduce. It is common between February and May to spot mother whales with their calves around the islands of Boa Vista and Maio, and more recently in Santiago.

The archipelago is also known worldwide for being one of the largest nesting grounds for marine turtles, particularly the Caretta caretta species. Nesting occurs from June to October, and the incubation lasts between 45 and 60 days. During this period, you can witness the hatchlings making their way to the sea, especially on the islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio.

The islands also host endemic species of seabirds and plants that urgently need protection.

Cabo Verde's waters are home to five species of marine turtles, including the hawksbill turtle, critically endangered according to the IUCN. The beaches of Cabo Verde, particularly those on the islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio, are among the most renowned turtle nesting sites globally, specifically for the Caretta caretta.

Volunteers can contribute to the following tasks:

• Protect and monitor beaches, including tracking turtle tracks and nests, collecting biometric measurements, and identifying female turtles with microchips.

• Rescue nests from areas threatened by flooding tides, predation by ghost crabs, and other risks, relocating them to a nursery.

• Support research, through various activities.

• Participate in environmental education and awareness initiatives.

Cabo Verde is a vital habitat for several species of seabirds, with some facing significant risks. The mission to protect seabirds involves a deep understanding of their habits, habitats, and challenges.

Seabird protection actions include surveying species distribution across the archipelago and monitoring their reproductive cycles to assess the success of conservation efforts and identify threats.

Using advanced techniques, from sample collection to GPS tracking and genetic analyses, these efforts aim to understand birds' nutritional needs, migration routes, and the dangers they face both on land and at sea.

In terms of preserving endemic plants, efforts are also being made to conserve Cabo Verde's unique flora and strengthen the management of protected areas.