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PO Box 1346
Point Reyes Station
CA 94956


The Institute for Bird Populations
© 2002
WebMaster

MAPS Volunteer Internships

The Institute for Bird Populations offers MAPS bird-banding field biologist positions and internships at various locations throughout the United States (Google Earth required). Interns will receive first-class intensive training and experience in handling, identifying, sexing, aging, and banding wild birds. This invaluable experience in field data collection and recording may satisfy class requirements (ask your counselor) and build impressive resumes. Make your summer interesting and make new friends.

  • Learn to identify birds by sight and sound
  • Contribute to continent-wide bird conservation efforts
  • Develop bird-banding and field data collection skills that will look great on your resume
  • Spend your summer outdoors in beautiful places

MAPS VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS: We seek motivated, enthusiastic volunteers in good physical condition with a strong desire to learn more about birds and natural history. Positions are available in Indiana and Yosemite National Park. Internships begin May 1 and run through August 8.

All successful applicants are expected to face the rigors and unpredictability of field conditions with good humor and flexibility. Prior banding experience or a background in wildlife biology or a closely related field is a plus, but not necessary because all internships include an intensive, two week training course in mist-netting, and the identification, handling, banding, and ageing and sexing of landbirds. In addition, interns receive individual training in these techniques throughout the field season.

Applicants with reliable field vehicles are especially needed (trucks/SUVs not required). Mileage will be reimbursed at the rate of $0.35/mile for project-related use. Shared housing and a per diem of $24 - $30 (depending on location) for food and incidental expenses, amounting to $2,016 - $2,520 for the season, are provided. Interns are expected to spend a minimum of 6 of every 10 days in the field, contingent upon daily weather conditions and logistical considerations. See below to apply.

TO APPLY:

1) Download and read:

2011 MAPS Internship Information Packet PDF
(applicable to intern and biologist applicants)

2) Complete an application and submit it online or by mail.

MAPS Internship Application Online OR PDF
MAPS Biologist Application PDF

3) Submit a cover letter and resume preferrably via email as a single attachment; otherwise via mail or fax to:

Ron Taylor
The Institute for Bird Populations
P.O. Box 1346
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Ph: (415) 663-1436
Fax: (415) 663-9482
e-mail: internships@birdpop.org


WHAT DID PAST INTERNS THINK?

"[Our trainer] is a great biologist; she knows her stuff and patiently teaches it well. She's a wicked friend too, we love you".

"I learned a lot in this single summer and through it all, I realized that this is what I want to do with my life ... I really enjoyed being a part of this experience ... Thank you for giving me this experience which will take me far in my academic endeavors"

"Very enjoyable teacher that loves working with birds and who I would be more than happy to work with again".

"I completely enjoyed my summer.. .and I cannot believe how much I learned."

"I really learned a lot from her (IBP biologist) for which I am very grateful"

MORE MAPS INTERNSHIP INFORMATION:
Want to know what it's like to be a MAPS intern? Curious what you will be doing? Trying to explain to your parents and friends that you will not be chasing birds with a butterfly net all summer? Check out some current and past banding operations.