Project

The World Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Strategy adopted in 2005 puts the emphasis on wildlife conservation as one of the highest priorities for the zoos around the world. Once offering only public entertainment, the zoos today must take the role of wildlife conservation centres, breeding endangered species and supporting their recovery in the wild. Tallinn Zoo (http://www.loomaaed.ee) participates in a numerous conservation projects, playing a leading role in the reintroduction project of the European mink (Mustela lutreola). It has also provided specimens for the reintroduction of the Black vulture. Tallinn Zoo introduces the public to a variety of animals and conveys information about wildlife through interpretative signs and boards, interactive devices, printed handouts and media representations. From autumn through spring classes for young animal lovers - schoolchildren of different age are regularly conducted in the Zoo

So far Tallinn Zoo has been a partner of EstYES for the local voluntary actions. In the development of our cooperation the first international workcamp was be held in Tallinn Zoo in summer 2007. Following its success this year we introduce two camps there. Tallinn Zoo was first open on the 25^th of August 1939, which means that during the second shift of the camp it will celebrate its 69^th anniversary.

Work

The work mainly consists of doing various gardening jobs in the green areas of the large zoo territory: clearing and tiding up, mowing grass, cutting bushes, planting flowers. There might be as well small renovation works and various odd jobs outdoors. In case of rainy weather alternative work indoors will be found. The work is planned as 7-8 hours a day. NB! Work does not include direct contact with the animals

Accomodation:

Volunteers will stay in the residential area of Tallinn in the EstYES apartment, where long-term EVS volunteers are usually accommodated. It takes about 20 min by bus to get from there to the city centre and about 40-50 min to get to the Zoo from there. Volunteers will have two rooms, equipped kitchen, shower rooms and toilet at their disposal. They will sleep on mattresses on the floor and in beds. Please bring your sleeping bags! Volunteers have to prepare their own meals for breakfasts and dinners. Lunches will be taken together with the Zoo gardening staff at the working place. Volunteers will use public transport to go to work; the tickets will be provided by EstYES.

Location

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, the largest city with 400 000 inhabitants and nearly as many tourists during summer. You can get a lot of information on Tallinn on www.tallinn.ee or www.visitestonia.com. Zoo is situated to the west from the city centre, about 15-20 min by public transport.  

Terminal

Airport, bus or train station, harbour in Tallinn.

Special requirements

No special skills required but you have to be ready for physical work. This camp is not suitable for volunteers allergic to hay. Tools will be provided, just take your working clothes and gloves and a sleeping bag! The camp language is English.

Leisure time

Besides that volunteers will get well acquainted with the zoo and its inhabitants, there are a lot of possibilities for leisure time activities since camp will take place in the capital, where one can find attractions for any taste: sightseeing & museums, festivals and concerts, live music, pubs, etc.

Participation fee