Opportunity Details
Animal Care Trail Intern
Name of Internship - Trail Intern
Summary of Internship:
The Animal Care Trail Intern will assist animal keepers with the husbandry of native Virginia mammals and birds
housed outdoors. Animal behavior will be monitored, exhibits and dens will be cleaned, diets will be made and fed
out; some medications will be given. Direct contact with animals may or may not occur. This internship requires
work outside in all types of weather.
VLM Internships are primarily designated for students enrolled in college or program of academic study. Candidates
not enrolled in college will be considered on a case by case basis and must follow all guidelines and term lengths
Length of Internship
☒1 semester ☒ Summer
☐2 semesters
# hours required weekly __4__ (on a set schedule)
Qualifications for this Internship:
This internship is open to individuals who are pursuing a degree in the sciences or a career in zoo keeping, wildlife
management/ conservation, or veterinary science. Individual must be able to work independently and be quiet and
calm around animals. Interns will work closely with keepers as well as alone in animal exhibits; therefore the
applicant will need to be able to follow directions closely. The applicant must successfully complete a working
interview. Candidates must be able to bend, stoop, and kneel. Pre-exposure rabies series a plus, but not required.
Experience -
Husbandry of native birds and mammals
Behavior of native birds and mammals
Operant conditioning and animal handling will be observed
May gain experience interacting with guests
Duties –
Checking exhibits for safety
Feeding animals
Preparing diets
May prepare and / or provide enrichment for animals
Documenting daily observations in log books
Will work closely with staff to assist with various deliveries, possibly including fish, straw/hay, kibble and
feed.
Projects -
A Reflection Paper on the internship experience, including a summary of the natural history of one or two preferred
species, in addition to the experience gained and how this experience informs future career choices. Also include
feedback and ideas on how to further develop this internship experience for future interns.
Expectations -
At least four (4) hrs per week 7:30-11:30am in all types of weather
Prior notice of absences
No more than three (3) absences during a term
Confidentiality -
All interns will sign a confidentiality waiver.
Animal medical information is to remain confidential.
No photos posted on social media
Evaluation –
The standard museum evaluation tool will be used at the end of term.
Feedback - How will your department gain feedback from the intern in order to improve the internship?
Feedback/ Improvements can be included with Reflections Paper.
To apply:
Send official VLM volunteer application, a cover letter and resume. A working interview will be required.
Fall semester deadline: Aug. 31st yearly
Spring semester deadline: Dec. 31st yearly
Summer: April 30th yearly
Age Minimum (with Adult): 18+, Minimum Age:18+
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Signup Questions
Please respond to the following questions in order to signup for this opportunity:
CONNECT. EQUIP. MOBILIZE.