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Animal Care Internship Birds- Fall 2026
Internship Period: August 25, 2026-November 27, 2026
Deadline to Apply: SPOTS ARE LIMITED-Apply today to join our Summer 2026 Birds Internship and launch your future in wildlife care.
Step into the Wild Side of Conservation.
Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity working alongside a variety of Avian species? The Aviary Team Internship at ZooTampa offers hands-on experience in animal husbandry, behavioral training, and real-time conservation education. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with professional animal care staff, gaining behind-the-scenes insight while building skills that pave the way for a career in zoology or wildlife management. From collecting behavioral data to creating enrichment and engaging with guests, every day is a chance to grow personally and professionally in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. If you're passionate, hardworking, and eager to learn, we want to hear from you!
Animal Care Internship, Aviary
Please note: If you are seeking an Animal Care internship, do NOT apply for more than two internships per term; applying to more than two may result in disqualification.
Description:
While working in the Aviary Department, interns will learn about the husbandry and behavior of diverse avian species within large aviaries which include, but not limited to; African Penguins, Shoebill Storks, African and Asian hornbills, Various Parrot species, waterfowl, wading birds, and many more! Interns who successfully complete the 14 week internship will have a better understanding of basic avian biology, anatomy, and avian husbandry. There is an online course to supplement and expand upon the in-person experiences gained during this internship.
Internship functions include, but are not limited to:

• Performing daily care of the animals alongside the keepers.
• Diet preparation, cleaning, disinfecting utensils/dishes for the animals in the collection.
• Assist in cleaning animal habitats in both guest areas and non-guest areas.
• Engaging with guests in our interactive habitats such as our Lorikeet Landing Aviary and African Penguin Chat.
• Assisting with maintenance of animal habitats which may include but not limited to; scrubbing, hosing, raking, planting, perching, pressure washing, digging.
• Assist with behavioral observations and daily record keeping.
• Design a large scale animal enrichment for the birds under our care.
• Research (3) species under our care and perform a Natural History Form on said species.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Applicants currently pursuing a degree in any of the biological or life sciences are preferred.
• Potential academic credit may be available subject to program eligibility requirements.
• Possess a sincere desire to work with both animals and guests.
• Excellent communication and customer relations skills.
• Ability to effectively work independently and within a team.
• Must be able to multi-task.
• Must have the ability to follow specific instructions and also be comfortable self-directing.
• Ability to communicate ideas and contribute effectively.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Required Availability:

• Must be able to commit to a 14 week internship.
• Must be able to commit to a minimum of 30 hours per week, with 40 hours per week preferred.
• The schedule is 3 or 4, ten-hour days (7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) with one weekend day of availability required.

Physical Abilities:

• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to west central Florida (i.e., heat, rain or cold).
• Must have physical endurance for long high volume days and be able to stand/walk for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift, push, pull and carry up to 50 pounds with or without accommodations.

Additional Requirements: If an internship offer is made, it is contingent on:

• Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their school before beginning the internship.
• All offers are contingent on the successful completion of a criminal background screening and execution of a required hold harmless/liability release agreement.
• Candidate will be responsible for the cost of the background check (typically $25 but certain jurisdictions may have additional fees).
• Contingent upon receipt of documentation of negative TB test within the last 6 months and Tetanus vaccination within the last 5 years.
• Interns must have personal health insurance coverage for illness or injury (as volunteers and interns are not covered by the Zoo workers' compensation program).

Applicants must submit an Internship Application, cover letter, and resume in order to be considered for a position.
Benefits:
Internships are unpaid and are designed to meet academic requirements, as applicable, and provide valuable real-world experience for participants. Successful completion of an internship may also yield letters of recommendation, a portfolio of their work when applicable, and important networking contacts. Potential academic credit may be available subject to program eligibility requirements. Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their school before beginning the internship. Successful completion of an internship may also yield letters of recommendation, a portfolio of their work when applicable, and important networking contacts.
Who is eligible?
High school diploma or GED is required. Applicants currently pursuing a degree in any of the biological or life sciences are preferred.
International Internship Eligibility Requirements:
Please note that ZooTampa is unable to offer sponsorship for student or work visas for this internship position. Only applicants who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship will be considered.
Please Note: Interns must make their own accommodation and transportation arrangements. This is an unpaid internship.
Please visit https://zootampa.org/intern-at-zootampa/ for more information.