Weekend Ornithology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aviculture Intern - Fall 2026
Location: Bronx Zoo
Department: Ornithology
Duration: Fall 2026- September- December; approximately 12 weeks
Schedule: 2-3 days per weeks (at least one weekend day)
Stipend: $800- $1200 total stipend (depending on length of internship) to be paid as one lump sum upon completion of the position, less applicable taxes.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by August 14, 2026. The position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Internship Summary:

The Bronx Zoo's Ornithology Department is seeking an intern with a desire to learn aviculture and the care of a variety of birds within the zoo's avian collection. Interns will gain hands-on experience with the professional and technical skills involved in daily animal care-primarily birds, with some exposure to mammals, reptiles, fish, and invertebrates. Learning directly under Ornithology Department keepers, interns will be introduced to a comprehensive range of zoo operations, including animal husbandry, diet and nutrition, exhibit maintenance, animal transfers, and record keeping. Interns will report to a supervisor or manager, with opportunities to shadow and learn from Senior Keepers and Wild Animal Keepers in their assigned section. By the end of the internship, each intern will complete a research project or written paper exploring an aspect of aviculture of their choosing.

Learning Outcomes:

• You will learn the daily aviculture routines, including how we prepare and follow prescribed diets and feeding procedures for the collection
• You  will learn how to observe animal health and behavior on a daily basis
• You will learn how to maintain accurate records-including health, behavior, enrichment, operant conditioning, and visitor engagement data-using tools such as ZIMS, internal ID cards, incubation and natal records, and daily reports
• You will learn how zoos monitor and interpret animal behavior, and how training and enrichment programs are used in avian areas
• You will learn best practices for visitor engagement and public speaking during animal enrichment demonstrations, including how to interact professionally and courteously with the public and Bronx Zoo staff.
• You will collaborate with an assigned avian staff member to identify and develop a personal project, which you'll work on over the course of your internship