This opportunity is curated through the UF TESI Environmental Leaders Network. Opportunities posted through the Network may not be affiliated with the Florida Museum or TESI, but are shared with UF undergraduate students who want to learn more about environmental research, education and outreach, and civic engagement.
Host Organization
White Oak Conservation
Type of Position
- Full time
- Monthly stipend of $2,080 (before taxes)
- Provided on-site housing
Description
The Florida grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum floridanus) is one of the most endangered birds in North America. Since 2019, White Oak has bred and released over 1,000 sparrows. White Oak’s minimal handling management model has led to sparrows that survive post-release and thrive, continuing future generations in the wild. This recovery program has robust partnerships with organizations including the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Interns experience this conservation program first-hand, working side-by-side with staff at White Oak. Focusing on ex situ animal care, interns work with sparrows through breeding seasons and winters, maintaining habitats, completing daily care needs and conducting observations. While interns see field team members and wildlife biologists during their internship, interns are not guaranteed the opportunity to observe the in-situ aspects of the program that are managed by partner organizations.
The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Conservation Internship requires a high degree of flexibility and a commitment to the assigned schedule and duties of the program. We are proud to have graduates who now work in field crews, zoological facilities, or who have pursued higher education in graduate programs focused on conservation.
Learning Opportunities
- Diet preparation, insect management, feeding, and cleaning
- Bird introductions and management
- Observation skills and knowledge of sparrow behavior, including identifying vocalizations and tracking individual birds by colored band
- Safe avian capture, hand restraint, and transportation
- Habitat maintenance including landscaping and fabrication
- Research skills including sample collection, camera trapping, video monitoring, rigorous daily data management, and reporting
- General reintroduction techniques including pre-release conditioning
- Artificial incubation and hatching (Summer only)
- Egg management and candling (Summer only)
- Hand-rearing passerines as needed (Summer only)
Eligibility
- Preference for recent college graduates or early career professionals
- Previous avian experience required, passerine handling and mist-netting experience preferred
- Keen eyesight to identify small birds and bands from a distance
- Good hearing ability to differentiate soft/quiet sounds and calls
- Hold a valid driver’s license and health insurance
- Able to work well independently and in a team environment
- Able to work evenings, weekends and holidays
- Experienced and comfortable working outside in high heat and humidity
- Strong attention to detail and data management skills
- High drive to learn, take on challenges, and stay motivated
Expected Duration
March 12, 2025 – September 6, 2025
Location
White Oak Conservation
581705 White Oak Rd
Yulee, FL 32097
Deadline to Apply
Saturday, December 7th