Writtle University College students are preparing for the trip of a lifetime. On Friday 1st April, they plan to travel to West Africa for two weeks of conservation work in Gambia.
The nine undergraduate and postgraduate students are studying animal management and science courses and will be accompanied by staff member Dr Jarmila Bone.
Jarmila said: "We're delighted to offer our students this fantastic opportunity to put science into practice. Project Wild Gambia supports a wide range of species and habitats and our team will gain invaluable skills and experience."
Project Wild Gambia was founded by Dr Roy Armstrong and supports zoological research and conservation.
The project has worked with species including Green Monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus) West African Dwarf Crocodiles (Osteolaemus tetraspis), West African Crocodiles (Crocodylus suchus) and critically endangered Hooded Vultures (Necrosyrtes monachus).
As part of the trip, students will be encouraged to develop proposals by designing and performing their own projects in the field.
Martha Duley said: "I'm most excited for... everything! I'm looking forward to experiencing a different culture and seeing new and amazing places, but most of all I can't wait to see the exotic animals and work on a potentially important project!"
For more information on Writtle University College's animal-related courses, go to writtle.ac.uk/animal