Avian Keeper Interns at Carolina Raptor Center work closely with Avian Ambassador Team staff to learn about husbandry, training, and education. Interns will help care for our avian ambassadors by preparing diets, distributing food, and cleaning enclosures. They will also learn positive reinforcement training techniques and present keeper chats to our visitors to connect the public to the natural world.
Ideal For:
The Avian Keeper Internship is ideal for those pursuing careers in zookeeping, animal husbandry, animal behavior, or conservation education.
Semesters Offered:
- Spring (January to May) - Applications due by October 31
- Summer (May to August) - Applications due by February 28
- Fall (August to December) - Applications due by June 30
Responsibilities & Duties:
- Assist staff with opening and closing procedures
- Basic care of birds of prey
- Diet preparation (including supplements/medications)
- Diet distribution
- Record keeping
- General cleaning duties
- Caretaking for ambassador birds, which includes:
- Getting voluntary weights on selected birds
- Disinfecting and cleaning of enclosures
- Changing water dishes
- Observing and recording various bird behaviors
- Assist with creating, distributing, and recording behavior-based enrichment
- Learning the application of techniques used in positive reinforcement training strategies
- Training and maintaining behaviors for husbandry purposes
- Conducting keeper talks for a variety of audiences
Commitment Expectations:
- This is an unpaid position
- Interns are required to work at least 3 days per week
- Must be willing to work weekends and holidays
- Interns are expected to maintain a consistent schedule
Qualifications:
This position best suits individuals with the following:
- At least 18 years old
- Ability to lift 50 lbs.
- Can work self-guided and with others
- Ability to work with people from all backgrounds
- Able to work in a fast-paced environment
- Must be able to positively interact with members of the public
- Follow instructions, both written and verbal
- Can work outside in all weather conditions
- Willingness to speak up and ask questions
Training:
New interns will receive general volunteer onboarding training with our Volunteer Manager, including a scavenger hunt and on-site onboarding training. In addition, there will be specific training on the day of onboarding where you will learn the following skills:
- Using a scale
- Introduction to the computer program, RaptorMed
- Bird behavior
Additional hands-on training will begin on your first day and continue throughout your first two weeks. Throughout the internship, you will also be provided with the following classes:
- Anatomy of Raptors
- Common Injuries and Signs of Illness
- Health Examinations and Beak Coping
- Foot and Beak Care
- Basics of Bird Behavior
- Raptor Training Techniques
Other Requirements:
Interns must pass a background check before starting, provided through Priority Background Information Solutions. A tetanus shot is highly recommended.
Read Full Internship Description
