Commerson's Dolphin Project
San Julián – Santa Cruz – Argentine Patagonia

In 1996 Fundación Cethus started a research project on Commerson’s dolphins (Cephalorhynchus commersonii) in the bay of San Julián. Since then, the Commerson’s dolphins which inhabit the bay have been photographed and identified using the same photo-identification technique that has been used in Ría Deseado since 1986. Up to now, more than 50 individuals have been counted that live there all the time.

Fundación Cethus researchers are working in the bay of San Julián to learn more about one of the least known, and, maybe, one of the most beautiful, because of its conspicuous black and white markings, dolphins of the world. In this historic bay, the studies are determining the different aspects that make up the biology, genetics and ecology of the species, for example the number of offspring a female will give birth to during her lifetime, their main prey and hunting techniques, the links between identified individuals, group size, and seasonal movements and distribution in the study area.

As part of the research team, participants will learn to work in the field making observations alternately from the coast and, when the sea permits, from boats. Information is obtained on a daily basis from photographs and from the behaviour of the animals.

In addition, participants will learn to use nautical charts during their work and to recognize sea and coastal birds which interact with Commerson’s dolphins.
Your work will contribute towards a better understanding of the species, the purpose being to improve the guidelines on management and conservation in the region.

Dates of the courses:
To be confirmed

Group size:
Up to 5 members

The cost of the Programme includes:
Accommodation
Talks on the biology of cetaceans, conservation, observation methods
Bibliographical study material
Transport within the work area

Not included:
Travel from city of origin / San Julián / return to city of origin
Personal insurance
Additional costs, food and other expenses
In order to be selected it is obligatory to show proof of travel insurance

Check out our Replies to frequently asked questions
If you wish to take part… Send us your letter of intent to entrenamiento@cethus.org listing the following:
Personal information: Name and Surname/s, address, date and place of birth, Personal Identity/Passport Number, telephone, e-mail, work or studies (specifying name and place of current course), experience of working with wildlife (not a pre-requisite).
Why you wish to come (concise).
Courses taken on cetaceans.
Indicate whether you have carried out previous field work on cetaceans specifying where and with which institution.
Did you already know about the Fundación Cethus?  How did you hear of it?
Dates you would like to come in order of preference.

To receive further information e-mail Training Programme or go to our contact page.