Volunteers
The Bird of Prey Centre is always looking for volunteers. In exchange for providing of your time, you will receive training in the care and welfare of the birds. Those who show dedication and aptitude will receive further training on handling, providing guided tours, and the maintenance of birds and equipment.
No one should be under the impression that they will be handling birds within a few days of arriving. There is an awful lot of dirt to clean up for a long time before anyone touches a bird.
Words of encouragement
I am very fortunate to be surrounded by so many enthusiastic young people who care as passionately about the birds as I do. Most of the volunteers are between the ages of 15 and 18. Almost all of them were introduced to the centre and birds of prey through the local schools, "Work Experience" programme. This programme places secondary school pupils in a working environment for a week. Despite working with me, being actively discouraged, getting wet and dirty every day, handling hawk food, and generally doing all the messy jobs, these kids came back to volunteer.
Some are good, some are very good, and one or two are exceptional. The enthusiasm that they all show amazes our visitors. In a world full of stories about how bad young people can be, it is encouraging to see the manners, courtesy, passion, and dedication, of the young volunteers.
We have a system in place to ensure all volunteers are trained to the same standard. To achieve the various landmarks, each volunteer must attend a minimum number of days within a specified period. In addition, each level contains specific training elements which the volunteer must show competence in. At each level, the volunteer is permitted to carry out a range of tasks limited by their experience and abilty.
Volunteer Guidelines
If interested in volunteering, the document below outlines the basic requirements.