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.

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 3-4 days a week at our Wild Bird Hospital and 1-2 days a week at our Sanctuary. We provide a $250 bi-weekly stipend and shared intern housing located on-site at our Sanctuary. 

Hospital Duties include: 

• Daily cleaning and feeding of Hospital patients
• Maintaining hospital cleanliness (i.e. sweeping, mopping, laundry, etc.)
• Keeping detailed and updated records on rehab patients
• Administering medication and fluid therapy
• Helping rehabilitators with medical procedures including wound care, fecal floats, and X-Rays
• Performing bird rescues, intakes, and releases
• Being on-call for bird emergency calls at least two nights per week
• Performing after-hours bird intakes
• Participating in at least one education outreach event

Sanctuary Duties include:

• Daily husbandry of permanent sanctuary residents (i.e. feeding, cleaning, checking enclosures, cleaning perches)
• Picking up donated fish from local marine centers and sorting fish for quality
• Feeding and cleaning of rehabilitation patients in medical and flight cages
• Occasional weighing of patients, assessing condition, and noting diet changes
• Researching, organizing, and providing enrichment for residents
• Interacting with visitors

Qualifications:

• At least 21 years old
• Willing to work 40 hours per week, including weekends and holidays with occasional evenings
• 6 month commitment
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in hot, humid, and rainy weather conditions
• Capable of multitasking and handling physically and mentally stressful tasks
• Ability to interact with the public in a professional manner
• Have a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to work well with others 
• Valid Driver's License and clean driving record