Aviculture Intern

AVICULTURE INTERNSHIP AT ENDANGERED SPECIES BREEDING FACILITY

Background: The George Miksch Sutton Avian Research Center (Sutton Center) was founded in 1983 with the mission of finding cooperative conservation solutions for birds and the natural world through science and education. The Sutton Center is a nonprofit organization located near Bartlesville, Oklahoma and has become a leader in avian research and conservation through its success in conservation-oriented, ecological field research on declining grassland birds, development of techniques for the reintroduction and monitoring of southern bald eagles, bird surveying across the world, and management of successful captive breeding of endangered species.

Internship Description: One of Sutton Center’s projects is focused on the breeding and release of the endangered Attwater’s prairie-chicken. Time is primarily divided between managing our captive flock, incubating eggs, raising chicks, and maintaining insect colonies. Aviculture interns will be required to assist staff in all day to day responsibilities for a three to six month commitment. Daily tasks include preparing diets and feeding birds, cleaning enclosures, caring for mealworm and cricket colonies, assisting aviculturists with new breeding and chick care techniques, maintaining animal records, collecting and processing eggs, monitoring egg incubation, raising chicks, maintaining bird enclosures, and additional tasks as assigned. The Sutton Avian Research Center is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and encourages diversity in the workplace.  For more information please visit www.suttoncenter.org.

Qualifications: Applicants must have completed two years of college or equivalent practical experience.  Applicants must be capable of working long hours in a fast-paced environment, lifting 50lbs and working in high heat and inclement weather conditions. Interns must be able to work both independently and in a team atmosphere, be detail oriented and able to follow instructions. A valid driver’s license and good driving record is required. Prior bird experience is a plus but not required. Interns will be required to work weekends and holidays. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

The ideal candidate would be available from March or April through mid to late August to coincide with the breeding season and transfer of birds for release.

Stipend

$800 per month with on-site housing or $1000 per month without on-site housing