WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERING: THE RED FLAGS MOST PEOPLE MISS
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In June 2026, I embarked on my African Conservation Experience (ACE) where I spent 10 days on the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Expedition alongside the founder of the lion sanctuary where we were based.
It was the third ACE project I participated in, and wow, did it end my African adventures with a bang!
I knew going into this experience that I would be able to do some type of veterinary work with lions and rhinos and participate in wildlife management work too, but the reality far exceeded my expectations. My fellow volunteers and I were able to participate in surgery on lions, work on rhinos and Cape buffalo, and we even learned how to dart from a helicopter! I felt so lucky to have this opportunity! The founder worked incredibly hard to ensure we all got to take part in as many aspects of this work as possible.
All of those activities were amazing, and we even got to spend time visiting the lions being lovingly cared for at the sanctuary and learning each of their individual stories. Seeing the dedication that goes into providing lifelong care for these animals was incredibly moving.
We also got taken to Kruger National Park for the weekend to teach us about the flora, fauna and how they all work together in this thriving ecosystem.
My favourite part of the experience was listening to the founder's many stories and learning so much about big cat care and how that is done ethically in Southern Africa. He is a self-taught expert whose years of experience are invaluable, and his passion, knowledge and genuine love for these animals were truly inspiring.
Feeling inspired by Christine Kay Davis's experience?
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