Interns are invaluable to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. We are happy to provide 6-month, paid internships to individuals who are interested and passionate about wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.  The unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys creates a great opportunity for interns to gain knowledge and experience working with a wide variety of avian species. From seabirds and shorebirds to raptors and songbirds, interns can expect to work hands-on alongside our certified wildlife rehabilitators at Mission Wild Bird and independently at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary.

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Our Avian Care internship consists of 5-day, 40-hour (sometimes more) work weeks. The schedule is split up so that individuals will be working 2-3 days a week at our Wild Bird Hospital and 2-3 days a week at our Sanctuary. We provide a $200 bi-weekly stipend and shared intern housing located on-site at our Sanctuary.

 

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Hospital Duties include:

• Daily cleaning and feeding of Hospital patients

• Maintaining hospital cleanliness i.e. sweeping, mopping, laundry

• Administering medication and fluids therapy

• Helping staff with wound care, blood work, fecals, xrays etc

• Participating in bird rescues, intakes and releases

• Answering bird emergency calls at least two nights a week

• Keeping detailed and updated reports on sick and injured patients

• Partaking in after-hour bird emergencies

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Sanctuary Duties include:

• Daily husbandry of permanent sanctuary residents i.e. feeding, cleaning, checking enclosures, replacing/cleaning perches

• Picking up donated fish from local marine centers and sifting fish for quality

• Helping with regular clean up of facility such as pressure-washing the boardwalk, replacing mulch, and trimming branches

• Feeding and cleaning of rehabilitation patients in medical cages and flight cages; including occasional weighing of patients, assessing condition, and noting diet changes

• Researching, organizing, and providing enrichment for residents

• Helping with any educational events such as occasional sanctuary tours and regular interactions with visitors

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Qualifications:​

• At least 21 years old

• 6 month commitment

• Willing to work 40 hours a week, weekends and holidays with occasional evenings

• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work in hot humid and rainy weather conditions

• Able to multitask and handle physical and mentally stressful tasks

• Ability to interact with the public proficiently

• Have a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and ability to handle multiple personalities.

• Valid U.S. Driver's License and clean driving record

 

*Start dates are flexible*