In collaboration with Augusta Cottontails, his internship provides an in-depth, hands-on experience in native bat and rabbit rehabilitation and biology. The length of the Internship coincides with the intensive bat and ongoing rabbit orphan season during which interns will assist with monitoring health and development, while providing regular feeding and care and managing ambassador bats and other adult patients. Interns will learn about bat and rabbit husbandry, nutrition, hand-feeding techniques, capture and restraint methods, wildlife laws, and release criteria. Interns will be trained and supervised by Leslie Sturges and Linda McDaniel,  permitted Wildlife Rehabilitators and licensed wildlife exhibitors with 20+ years of experience. 

LEARN

• Wildlife handling and data collection
• Feeding and care of native bat and rabbit species, especially neonates
• Identify bats with both common and scientific names and learn species husbandry 
• Understand and articulate bat anatomy
• Identify echolocation calls through the use of call data and acoustic monitoring equipment
• Participate in roost counts
• Identify appropriate release sites for cottontail rabbits
• Learn native plant identification and browse selection
• Learn native insect guilds and seasonality

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain intake logs and information boards
• General cleaning of enclosures and facilities
• Monitor progress/maintain awareness of patients' health/behavior, record weights/ food consumption, and maintain appropriate husbandry and housing  
• Assist with capture, restraint, and transportation of patients  
• Report maintenance and/or safety hazards to facility supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS

• Self-motivated with an interest in working with wildlife, specifically in conservation
• Able to enthusiastically work long hours
• Attention to detail, punctuality, initiative, and a strong desire to learn
• Background in animal care and husbandry
• Coursework or experience with wildlife/ exotics/rescue

   

SCHEDULE AND HOURS:

The 12-week requirement is from mid-May to mid-August, with some date flexibility. 

Full day and/or evening shifts are required and may vary depending on facility needs. 

SALARY

 Stipend of $500 per month. 

REQUIREMENTS

• At least 18 years old
• Must have own transportation
• Pre-exposure rabies vaccination series
• Current COVID-19 and tetanus vaccination
• Preference is given to candidates with local housing options, but limited housing may be available
• Category IV Caretaker Permit (will be paid for by BCRV)

Bat Conservation & Rescue of Virginia and Augusta Cottontails are 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, licensed and permitted by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and US Department of Agriculture