Italian among international pack of Crow volunteers

AN Italian woman’s passion for wildlife has led her to Africa to volunteer for the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) in Yellowwood Park.

Cristina Flamini is a qualified veterinarian from Perugia, Italy.
The 30-year-old wildlife enthusiast decided to volunteer at Crow to gain experience with wildlife in South Africa. She has also worked in the US and UK. “South Africa is the best place for wildlife. I’ve always loved wildlife. There isn’t much training overseas,” she said.

Flamini joined Crow in January as a volunteer and returns to Italy in April.
She joined Crow because they’re serious about their rehabilitation work. “I enjoy the contact with the animals in the clinic. Volunteering at Crow broadens your life experience, gives you a chance to meet different people, but the main focus is on animals,” she said.

Flamini wants to get familiar with local species in South Africa and hopefully move to South Africa to work with wildlife. Reflecting on her time in South Africa, Flamini said: “There is something magical about South Africa that makes you want to stay here. The weather is great,” she said.
There are currently eight international volunteers at Crow from Farrow Islands, Canada, UK, USA and Australia. Crow marketing and communications officer, Paul Hoyte said international volunteers benefit Crow. “These volunteers add dynamics to our team. We wouldn’t be where we are today without them. Cristina’s been fantastic. She’s fitted in with the team straight away. She’s offered us a lot of knowledge and learnt from our team,” said Hoyte.
For now, the Italian will return to her veterinary work in Italy, but will continue to return to South Africa for wildlife volunteer work. On her time at Crow, she said: “It’s been a good experience. They are like family. This is a good environment to be in.”

To become a volunteer at the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow), members of the public must be 16-years or older. Volunteers are included in rescues and releases where possible. No experience is required, just a passion for animals and their welfare. “It is a great way to meet people from different walks of life as our international volunteer programme brings volunteers from all over the globe,” said marketing and communications officer, Paul Hoyte. To become a volunteer call Crow on 031-462-1127.