A close-up view of a leopard sleeping peacefully, its head resting on its front paws. The leopard's golden fur is covered in dark rosettes, with its face partially visible, eyes closed, and whiskers resting softly. The overall scene conveys a sense of calm and tranquility.

Summer Internships in South Africa

Animal and Zoological Management

Johannesburg and Oudtshoorn, South Africa

  • Dates – June 29–July 26, 2025
  • Max Enrollment – 20
  • Prerequisites – No
  • Career Area – Animal and Vet Science

Program Overview

Interns will gain first-hand experience in wildlife handling and care by spending 2 weeks at Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary and 2 weeks at Cango Wildlife Ranch. During your internship, you will get to study a variety of animals, including big cats such as white and tawny lions, Siberian tigers, pumas, and leopards. You will also have the chance for hands-on participation in training, feeding, and assisting the zoo veterinary team in providing care to a variety of species. You will learn about all aspects of care and management of captive wildlife by helping maintain enclosures and supporting zoo staff with clinical and sanctuary chores. As you work with big cats, you might find yourself preparing their meals. This will mean cutting up meat, including antelope and other animals who have been hit by cars. You will not have to slaughter any live animals for food but will have to be able to butcher dead animals for the big cats to eat. As a note, this program is not targeted at pre-veterinary students and does not guarantee pre-veterinary experience.

Apart from work for the internship, you will also engage in an online course facilitated by a UC Davis faculty. The online coursework provides an opportunity for meaningful reflection during the program. You will spend approximately 35-40 hours per week at your internship and another two hours per week for the online course.

This program includes two full safari weekends, where you will learn about conservation work, see wildlife (often get to see the “big 5”!) and see in practice some of South Africa’s hugely successful mammal conservation efforts. 

Program provided in partnership with Loop Abroad.

Program Contacts

Program Highlights

  • Learn more about the diversity of South African wildlife and about conservation efforts for species such as the black-footed cat.
  • Get first-hand experience supporting enrichment and training for primates.
  • Discover the anatomy, behavior, and care needs of South African animals from a zoo vet perspective.
  • Open to students from all majors.

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