Volunteer
Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000kHSNAA2/spring-bird-survey-volunteer-marchmay
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ADDRESS: Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge; 1611 North 2nd Avenue; Ajo, Arizona 85321
DEPT: Fish & Wildlife Service
DATES: 3/1/2023 – 5/31/2023
DESCRIPTION:
Help conduct bird surveys with another birder volunteer in the field including up to 10 nights a month camping in the refuge.
Cabeza Prieta NWR is an 860,010 acre refuge with 803,418 acres designated as wilderness. The refuge is located in southwest Arizona, within the Sonoran Desert. The Sonoran Desert is the most biodiverse desert in the world; as such the refuge offers spectacular landscapes and a variety of habitats for birds. We are in the process of updating the bird checklist and are seeking a residential volunteer or couple to assist with bird surveys and visitor services. Ten surveys are conducted each month and are representative of a variety habitats on the refuge. In addition to bird survey work, there is visitor services work including greeting and being a representative for the refuge for our visitors at the visitor contact station.
The refuge has an RV site with full hook-ups. We ask 24 hours a week of volunteer service in exchange for this accommodation. There is limited Wi-Fi and cell phone service varies with carrier. Arrival in mid to late February is available and preferred if available.
Conduct bird surveys with another birder volunteer in many areas of the vast refuge including camping up to 10 nights a month in the refuge, possible visitor services work following bird survey – mainly information and interpretation for visitor center visitors (if interested in staying on beyond surveys, but other work is available in all areas of the refuge).
· Enthusiasm for working outdoors on a birding project.
· Ability to work both independently and well with others.
· Willingness to start your day before sunrise and to walk through a variety of desert habitats.
· Wear a volunteer uniform (provided) and interact with visitors in a professional manner.
· Defensive Driving course is required to operate a government truck. Training will be provided.
· Recognize birds by sight and sound, helpful and recommended.
· Ability to record data accurately.
· Ability to use a GPS or similar device.
- Backpacking/Camping
- Biology
- Drivers License
- Visitor Information
· 75-80% outdoors
· Tent camping on refuge near some of the survey locations for up to 10 nights
- Slip, trip, and fall hazards
- Insects, snakes, plants, weather
- No