Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship at Wild Instincts

Location: Rhinelander, WI

Sessions Available:

• Spring: March 16 – May 24
• Summer: May 18 (or earlier) – August 30
• Fall: August 24 (or thereabouts) – November 1
  (Consecutive sessions available for qualified applicants)

About Wild Instincts: Wild Instincts provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with a variety of native Wisconsin wildlife species including mammals, birds and herps. As an intern, you will be immersed in the complex, rewarding, and sometimes messy world of animal care, learning directly from experienced wildlife professionals. Whether you’re feeding baby birds, assisting with a wildlife rescue, or helping prepare animals for release, this internship will challenge you and provide an unforgettable learning experience.

Position Overview: We are seeking dedicated, hard-working interns who are committed to making a difference in the lives of injured and orphaned wild animals. As part of the Wild Instincts team, you’ll gain extensive exposure to all aspects of wildlife care, from intake to release. You’ll be involved in animal husbandry, medical care, fieldwork, and education, working directly with wildlife professionals to build your skills and knowledge.

Intern Responsibilities:

• Animal Care: Feed, clean enclosures, monitor animal behavior, and ensure proper biosecurity.
• Rescue & Release: Participate in wildlife rescues, releases, and transportation of animals.
• Medical Assistance: Perform basic medical tasks like tube feeding, administering fluids, medicating, bandaging, lab work, and record keeping.
• Fieldwork: Assist in animal capture, restraint, and release techniques.
• Administrative Duties: Help with record-keeping, answering phones, and maintaining documentation.
• Public Education: Participate in wildlife education programs and interact with the public, law enforcement, and other professionals.
• Training & Learning: Receive hands-on training in wildlife rehabilitation techniques, including animal nutrition, husbandry, and emergency response.
• Work Schedule: A 5-day workweek, typically 12-hour shifts (8am-8pm), with 2 days off, consecutive when possible, depending on patient load.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 1 year of college (2 years preferred) in wildlife, biology, animal science, ecology, ornithology, mammalogy, pre-vet, or a related field.
• Current tetanus and COVID-19 vaccinations.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Physically capable of rigorous outdoor work in varying conditions, including traversing uneven terrain.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs.
• Able to handle physically and emotionally stressful situations.
• Ability to stay calm and focused in emergency, life-or-death scenarios.
• Strong work ethic, professionalism, and a positive attitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable with emotional aspects of wildlife care, including euthanasia.
• Flexible, organized, and able to prioritize tasks.
• Mature and open to constructive feedback.
• Professional appearance and demeanor, with good communication skills.
• A sense of humor and eagerness to learn!

Benefits:

• Stipend: $100/week to help cover living expenses.
• Housing: On-site shared housing with laundry facilities is provided.
• Hands-On Experience: Work with diverse wildlife species and gain practical experience in wildlife handling and rehabilitation.
• Mentorship: Learn from experienced professionals with decades of experience in the field.
• Unique Opportunity: Develop your skills in animal care, medical work, and field rescue operations.