Volunteer Opportunities : Wildlife Program

Wildlife Program Volunteers

Do you have a positive, enthusiastic attitude about engaging the public? Do you communicate well? Do you work independently and resourcefully? Do you have good observational skills? If so, you’re an ideal candidate for our Wildlife Volunteer Program.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff presents live wildlife programs seasonally at noon and 2:00 PM from May through September. Volunteers assist staff with animal care, handling, training, and feeding, as well as with public presentations. They help ready animals before a program and hold them during the question-and-answer period at the end of a show.

Why become a Wildlife Program volunteer?

Learn: You’ll expand your awareness, understanding, sensitivity, and appreciation for local natural areas and wildlife. You’ll learn by apprenticing with experienced wildlife rehabilitators.

Teach: You’ll participate by educating others.

Connect: As part of a dedicated volunteer program, you’ll attend occasional social meetings with others to share stories and discuss experiences working with the Wildlife Program.

What’s required to become a volunteer?

Knowledge: You must learn about different native animals, and understand the importance of each species and their habitat.

Commitment: You must commit to 25 scheduled hours of service during the calendar year, which includes some weekends and holidays.

How do I become a volunteer?

New wildlife volunteers learn through apprenticeship with staff and experienced volunteers. Topics covered in training include:

  • Basic animal handling
  • Making positive contact with the public
  • Characteristics of reptiles, mammals, and birds
  • Methods for wild animal rehabilitation

Contact Elizabeth Vogler at (928) 774-1442, ext. 124, or e-mail volunteering if you would like to help with the wildlife program.