Raptor interns sought for Hoffman center
The Northern Illinois Raptor Center is seeking interns for its upcoming educational sessions. NIRC has new “mews” (homes) in Vogelei Park in Hoffman Estates, and will be placing birds there soon.
Helpers are needed to take care of the birds. Training begins Oct. 6 and runs for six weeks from 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Operating out of the Vogelei Barn in Hoffman Estates, the NIRC brings live raptor programming to Vogelei Park and the Hoffman Estates Park District. This fall, a new display will be ready to house a variety of birds of prey for display near Safety Town at Vogelei Park.
The NIRC was formed to bring together the different groups of specialists in the area of birds of prey — veterinarians, falconers, rehabilitators and conservation organizations working in the areas of education, conservation, research, veterinary medicine and falconry.
With the completion of the mews there is a great need for more volunteers, but special training is needed.
“The perfect intern is a patient person who loves animals, particularly birds, and has an interest in nature and conservation,” said Barbara Schmidt. “Interns love the outdoors, are willing to learn, and are comfortable with animals, including their handling.
NIRC is looking for those with a willingness to work, maintain and care for the raptors. Especially desirable are people willing to speak in front of groups on behalf of NIRC.
Participants will gain an in-depth knowledge of raptors, their characteristics, their behaviors, their role in nature, and care, handling, training techniques; an appreciation of raptors and conservation and will learn how to address an injured bird event.
Interns will have many volunteer opportunities, including care and handling of raptors, training raptors, facility maintenance, soliciting donations and applying for grants, website maintenance and presenting at raptor programs.
The training fee is $200. A limited number of spaces are available. Contact Barbara Schmidt at bschmidt@tnirc.org