Volunteer

Become an Avian Behavior Superstar!

Avian Behavior is home to a wide variety of birds near Lake Wohlford between Escondido and gorgeous Valley Center, California. Our flock is used for a many projects, with the underlying purpose of promoting preservation through education, progressive behavior management techniques, and the depth of the human-animal relationship. As master falconers and people who care deeply about the ties between birds, bugs, soil, and plants, there are many wonderful ways you can get involved in sharing your love of birds and supporting our work.

Avian Behavior volunteers provide key support to our daily operations. Ambassadors assist with educational programming, fieldwork, daily care of avian ambassadors, administrative tasks, and more. Our goal is to provide volunteers with rewarding learning opportunities and experiences that advance avian conservation through education, training, and research.

Volunteer Requirements

Avian Behavior volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. They must commit to at least four (4)  hours a week for a minimum of three (3) months. Volunteers must be up to date on their tetanus and Covid vaccinations. Some tasks require lifting (e.g., up to 50 lbs), bending, standing for long periods, and working in various weather conditions. All volunteers complete an orientation and training program covering wildlife handling, safety protocols, and facility procedures. Shifts are from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and are generally the same day each week. Volunteers are required to wear sturdy shoes and professional outdoor clothing.

Core Ambassador Roles

Check out our volunteer job descriptions below:

• General avian care volunteer
• Experienced avian care volunteer
• Avian behavior docent volunteer
• Avian education program volunteer

• Native species and habitat planning volunteer (Coming soon!)
• Research fieldwork volunteer (Coming soon!)