Job Opportunities

The following positions are currently open for application:

  1. NSERC Industrial Undergraduate Summer Student Research Positions
  2. Long Point Bird Observatory Assistant Coordinator
  3. Long Point Bird Observatory Internship
  4. Wetland Bird and Amphibian Survey Technicians - Ontario
  5. Marsh Bird Research Techicians - Saskatchewan
  6. Long Point Bird Observatory Volunteer Field Biologists - Migration Monitoring Program
  7. Long Point Bird Observatory Volunteer Breeding Bird Census Assistants
  8. Bird Studies  Canada - Long Point Bird Observatory - University of Guelph - Volunteer Field Assistants
  9. Volunteer Field Positions

 

NSERC Industrial Undergraduate Summer Student Research Positions

Bird Studies Canada (BSC) is seeking university students for NSERC summer internships. Up to 5 positions may be available for projects described below. Potential candidates should indicate which of the positions they are interested in applying to. All positions will be full-time (temporary) for a maximum of 16-weeks (May-August), 35 hours/week. Students should meet the following criteria to be considered for these positions:

  • Eligible for an Industrial Undergraduate Student Research Award, please see website for details.
  • Willing to work unusual hours (i.e., early mornings, some evenings and weekends) to complete field work.
  • Experience with biological fieldwork and/or research. Applicants with interest and/or experience in ornithology are preferred.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills. " Strong self-motivation. " Strong computer skills, MS Word, MS Access, MS Excel
  • Have a valid drivers license (e.g., G or G2)
  • Positions will be for a 16-week period, starting on or around 1 May 2012; salary range:$1,800-$2,300/mo, depending on experience

List of current BSC job opportunities:

1. BANK SWALLOW RESEARCH AND MONITORING

The problem: Bank Swallow populations in Ontario (and throughout eastern Canada) are experiencing rapid declines. The reason for the decline is not well understood, but may come from several direct and indirect sources, such as widespread habitat loss and climate change. Despite being a common and widespread bird, we know little about habitat requirements for Bank Swallows.

Background: In 2010, BSC initiated research and monitoring efforts to address questions about the distribution, population ecology and habitat use for Bank Swallows in southern Ontario. Our research focused on Bank Swallows breeding along the bluffs of Lake Erie (i.e., from Long Point west to Rondeau Provincial Park). The study area supports the largest known concentration of breeding Bank Swallows worldwide (~50,000 breeding pairs). In 2012, BSC will be undertaking a new research avenues using radio telemetry to track Bank Swallow breeding and post-breeding movements. Our objectives are to (1) determine how Bank Swallows use the local landscape to forage and identify factors that affect behavioural choices in foraging locations (e.g., weather patterns, nesting stage); (2) determine what factors best explain variation in post-breeding movements, timing of migratory departures and nocturnal roost site choice.

Responsibilities: This position is suitable for candidates who: possess a strong work ethic; are highly motivated and organized; have an interest in ornithology or conservation biology and; enjoy long hours working outdoors. The candidates responsibilities may include landowner contact, capturing and handling birds at nest sites, radio transmitter application, manual radio tracking (i.e, triangulation or homing methods), nest monitoring, colony surveys by boat, data retrieval, and data entry, organization, and analysis. In addition, if the student desires to conduct a B.Sc. honours thesis using data from this research project, BSC will support the student in this endeavour; however the student should be prepared to secure an academic (co-) supervisor for the project at their university.

Location: Work will be based out of Port Rowan, ON. Accommodations will be available at a reasonable monthly rate.

Additional qualifications: Experience with the following is helpful, but not required:

  • capturing and handling birds
  • radio telemetry
  • nest monitoring

2. MARSH MONITORING SURVEYS

The problem: The Great Lakes rank as some of the most polluted and stressed aquatic ecosystems in the world. They also contain some of the best remaining examples of large extensive wetlands, most of which have been destroyed by development. Despite extensive efforts to restore and conserve these remaining wetlands, scientists know relatively little about the status and trends of the health of Great Lakes coastal wetlands.

Background: In the early 2000s, BSC became a partner in the Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands Consortium, a massive collaboration of organizations from throughout the Great Lakes basin. The consortiums goal was to develop a comprehensive suite of ecological indicators that would track the health of Great Lakes coastal wetlands. The final set of indicators consists of bird, amphibian, vegetation, fish, macro-invertebrate, and water quality metrics, summarized in a comprehensive monitoring plan. The goal of this project is to carry out the bird and amphibian component of the monitoring plan in 2012 at Great Lakes coastal wetlands in Ontario, Michigan, and Ohio. Numerous other collaborating organizations will be collecting information on the remaining indicators throughout the rest of the Great Lakes basin.

Responsibilities: Work as part of a crew to prepare for and conduct point count surveys of wetland birds and calling amphibians in the field using standardized survey protocols; enter survey data into an online database throughout and/or after the field season; and assist the Aquatic Surveys Biologist to complete other tasks associated with the project as needed.

Location: Work will involve travelling throughout southern Ontario and parts of Michigan and Ohio, with Port Rowan, ON, serving as a base of operations. Transportation, accommodations, and food will be provided by the project during field work. Successful candidates will be required to attend a mandatory one-day training session in mid- March 2012 at BSC headquarters in Port Rowan, Ontario, although alternative arrangements are possible if excessive travel prevents attendance.

Additional qualifications:

  • have a valid passport and be able to travel in Canada and the United States;
  • have canoeing skills and be certified (or can easily be certified) to operate small outboard boat motors and small vessels in Ontario;
  • have demonstrated ability to identify birds by sight and sound and frogs and toads by sound that breed in southern and central Ontario wetlands (e.g., treed swamps, wet meadows, marshes); and
  • be able to camp and work outdoors under harsh conditions (heat, biting insects) for long periods of time, including working outdoors at night to survey calling amphibians.

The applicant should also:

  • be enrolled in year 3 or 4 of a Bachelor of Science or equivalent community college diploma in biological science, environmental science, wildlife/natural resource studies, or another similar subject;
  • be familiar with Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program survey protocols or similar bird and amphibian field survey techniques;
  • have practical knowledge and experience using maps and GPSs; " have valid First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification; and
  • be willing and able to travel to Port Rowan, Ontario at her/his expense.

3. CHIMNEY SWIFT RESEARCH AND MONITORING

The problem: Once considered an abundant species, Chimney Swifts, like many other aerial insectivores in North America, are experiencing strong population declines across their range. Due to a lack of basic knowledge about Chimney Swift behaviour and ecology, it is difficult to identify the reasons or pinpoint locations of the most severe declines. Decreases in suitable chimneys for roosting and nesting, a decline of aerial insect availability, and an increase in unpredictable weather are among several suspected causes.

Background:, In 2009, BSC initiated a research and monitoring project that focused on determining if loss of nest and roosting habitat was contributing to the decline of Ontarios Chimney Swifts. Through a combination of volunteer and staff efforts we collected data that identified and described active nest and roosting habitat within Ontarios urban communities. Our objectives are to: (1) Identify chimney characteristics that are important to urban swifts; (2) Determine whether there is enough habitat to support the population; (3) Determine how many birds are present in key urban areas; (4) Collect data that will contribute to the design of artificial nesting towers; and (5) Increase awareness of the importance of urban biodiversity and facilitate the conservation of Chimney Swift habitat. In 2012, BSC will continue build on our previous work efforts, conducting presence/absence surveys and locating previously unknown nest and/or roosting chimneys in targeted communities throughout southern Ontario.

Responsibilities: This position is suitable for candidates who: possess a strong work ethic; are highly motivated and organized; have an interest in ornithology or conservation biology and; enjoy long hours working outdoors and in urban landscapes. The candidates responsibilities may include landowner contact, nest monitoring and population surveys in urban areas, data retrieval, and data entry, and organization. In addition, if the student desires to conduct a B.Sc. honours thesis using data from this research project, BSC will support the student in this endeavour; however the student should be prepared to secure an academic (co-) supervisor for the project at their university.

Location: Work will be based out of Port Rowan, ON. Accommodations will be available at a reasonable monthly rate.

4. FOREST BIRD SPECIES AT RISK SURVEYS

The problem: This project will focus primarily on the Norfolk Sand Plain. This diverse region supports several unique avian species at risk (SAR). This project will gather knowledge on the distribution, abundance and productivity of five forest bird SAR with significant populations in this region: Acadian Flycatcher, Cerulean Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, and Eastern Whip-poor-will. Baseline knowledge is lacking for most of these species and is needed by land managers in this region.

Background: BSC - Ontario region has been actively involved in SAR research, monitoring, stewardship, outreach and conservation for more than 20 years. The main objective of BSCs SAR monitoring is to collect baseline data on species at risk occurrence, abundance and productivity within the Norfolk Sand Plain. Forested areas within the Norfolk Sand Plain are of high conservation value, but are owned and managed by several different agencies and organizations. We will work in cooperation with interested landowners including the Long Point Region Conservation Authority, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Norfolk County and the St. Williams Conservation Reserve Community Council to ensure that data collected will be used to develop site based management plans. At present, current SAR occurrence data is not readily available for these sites.

Responsibilities: The candidates responsibilities will primarily include bird surveys throughout the Norfolk Sand Plain focusing on areas with known or potential habitat for Acadian Flycatcher, Hooded Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Cerulean Warbler and Eastern Whip-poor-will. Other duties will include nest monitoring, capturing and handling birds at nest sites, habitat inventories, data entry, organization, and analysis. In addition, if the student desires to conduct a B.Sc. honours thesis using data from this research project, BSC will support the student in this endeavour; however the student should be prepared to secure an academic (co-) supervisor for the project at their university.

Location: Work will be based out of Port Rowan, ON. Accommodations will be available at a reasonable monthly rate.

Additional qualifications:

  • have demonstrated ability to identify southwestern Ontario birds by sight and sound;
  • have previous experience with nest monitoring, habitat inventories and the capturing and handling of birds;
  • be able to work outdoors under harsh conditions (heat, biting insects, Poison Ivy) for long periods of time;
  • have practical knowledge and experience using maps and GPS;

5. GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER SURVEYS

The problem: The Golden-winged Warbler is listed a Threatened species in Canada. The species is found in early successional habitats in southern Ontario, and are most common in eastern Ontario along the edge of the Canadian Shield. Threats to the population include habitat loss, hybridization with Blue-winged Warblers and nest parasitism by Brown-headed Cowbirds.

Background: BSC is partnering with Environment Canada to conduct Golden-winged Warbler surveys in priority areas in eastern Ontario. The goal of the project is to provide updated population numbers, describe habitat characteristics, and identify threats. Surveys will take place at 6 sites in Ontario within priority focal areas identified in conservation plans.

Responsibilities: The candidates responsibilities will primarily include surveys for Blue-winged and Golden-winged Warblers in eastern Ontario. Other duties will include: the collection of habitat data, deployment of audio recorders and possible nest searching and monitoring. In addition, if the student desires to conduct a B.Sc. honours thesis using data from this research project, BSC will support the student in this endeavour; however the student should be prepared to secure an academic (co-) supervisor for the project at their university.

Location: TBD, but will be within the Kingston/Ottawa area. Accommodations may be available at a reasonable monthly rate.

Additional qualifications:

  • have demonstrated ability to identify southern Ontario birds by sight and sound;
  • have previous experience with nest monitoring, and habitat inventories;
  • be able to work outdoors under harsh conditions (heat, biting insects, Poison Ivy, Prickly Ash) for long periods of time;
  • have practical knowledge and experience using maps and GPS;

HOW TO APPLY:

Students are encouraged to apply by Wednesday, Feb 22, 2012 (however, competition remains open until positions are filled). Please send a brief (one page) cover letter outlining your interest in the position(s), along with your resume and 2-3 references. While BSC appreciates all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. The most qualified applicants will proceed with the NSERC award application.

Apply to :

Myles Falconer, Ontario Program Biologist
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160, 115 Front Street,
Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0.
Fax: 519-586-3532;
email mfalconer@birdscanada.org.

Bird Studies Canada is the country's only national charitable organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, appreciation, and conservation of wild birds and their habitats. For more information please visit www.birdscanada.org.

 

LONG POINT BIRD OBSERVATORY ASSISTANT COORDINATOR

Bird Studies Canada is seeking an assistant to help run the core programs of the Long Point Bird Observatory (currently Migration Monitoring, Tree Swallow Project, Breeding Bird Census Project, Doug Tarry Natural History Fund - Young Ornithologist Workshop/Internship and aspects of the Latin American Training Program). The position will run from 1 April to 1 December 2012. The position is renewable annually based upon performance and funding. Prospective applicants must have superior birding, banding and bander training skills (with a strong emphasis on passerines, mist netting, ageing and sexing). A BSc in biology (or equivalent field experience) is desirable as is experience working or volunteering at a migration monitoring station. Previous experience training field personnel (especially volunteers) is highly desirable. It is also important to have an excellent working knowledge of currently accepted ageing and sexing techniques, the ability to follow well established standardized field protocols, strong leadership and mentoring skills needed to oversee volunteers and seasonal field staff and take charge of a major banding operation. Motorboat experience, basic handy-person skills and a good working knowledge of Windows-based computer programs are desirable. The position is well suited for someone who truly loves birding and fieldwork in a remote setting, enjoys excellent physical health, is very well organized, demonstrates initiative, has an exceptional work ethic and interpersonal skills, and is ready for the challenge of helping to oversee the oldest and busiest bird observatory in North America.

Starting monthly wage: $1800-2200CDN (plus legal benefits). Costs of field food, accommodation, and field travel are provided.

Please submit cover letter, resume (including names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of 3 references) to:

Stuart Mackenzie,
LPBO Program Coordinator,
Long Point Bird Observatory
c/o Bird Studies Canada,
P.O. Box 160,
Port Rowan, Ontario, Canada N0E 1M0,
519-586-3531(ext. 162);
Fax: 519-586-3532;
Email: smackenzie@birdscanada.org.

Visit our web site at www.birdscanada.org/longpointt to learn more about the Long Point Bird Observatory and Bird Studies Canada. Closing date for competition: 15 February 2012. Only eligible candidates will be contacted.

LONG POINT BIRD OBSERVATORY INTERNSHIP:

Long Point Bird Observatory (LPBO) seeks an intern to aid in the delivery of the Migration Monitoring Program for one or both of the spring and fall migration seasons (April 1 to June 10 and/or Aug 1 to November 15). Located on the north shore of Lake Erie, Long Point is one of the last wild areas left in southern Ontario. The region is an internationally recognized World Biosphere Reserve, a Globally Important Bird Area and supports a fantastic diversity of habitats, plants, and animals. Founded in 1960, Long Point Bird Observatory (LPBO) is North America's oldest bird observatory, and operates as a program of Bird Studies Canada. The intern will primarily be a Bander-in-Charge (BIC) at one of LPBOs three field stations helping to run the migration monitoring program, liaise, train, and coordinate volunteers, provide logistical support, maintain field station facilities and equipment, computerize data, and generally helping to ensure that the Observatory's programs are being conducted to the highest possible standards. Experience working or volunteering at a migration monitoring station is desirable. With over 30,000 birds banded and millions counted annually at LPBO, a great deal of birding, mist netting and banding experience (i.e. at least 2,000 landbirds banded) is essential. Previous motor boating experience and general handy-person skills are desirable. The position is perfectly suited for someone who loves birding and working in a remote setting, is an excellent bander, can personally oversee the training and direction of volunteers, can capably follow well-established field protocols, is very well-organized, has an exceptional work ethic, enjoys communicating with the public and school groups, and most of all someone who is ready for a challenge. The Intern will receive a monthly stipend of $800-1200 depending on qualifications. On-site accommodations and food are provided.

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a resume with three references (include phone and e-mail addresses), and a completed volunteer application form which can be downloaded from our website (www.birdscanada.org/longpoint) to:

Stuart Mackenzie,
LPBO Program Coordinator,
Long Point Bird Observatory
c/o Bird Studies Canada,
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, Ontario, Canada N0E 1M0
519-586-3531 (ext. 162)
E-mail smackenzie@birdscanada.org

Please indicate whether you are applying for the spring, fall or both field seasons. Visit our web site www.birdscanada.org/longpoint for more information about the Long Point Bird Observatory and Bird Studies Canada. Closing date for competition: 15 February 2012. Only eligible candidates will be contacted.

WETLAND BIRD AND AMPHIBIAN SURVEY TECHNICIANS

Bird Studies Canada seeks two (2) Wetland Bird and Amphibian Survey Technicians to conduct bird and amphibian (frog and toad) point count surveys in Great Lakes coastal marshes in Ontario, Michigan, and Ohio. Under the guidance of the Aquatic Surveys Biologist, the Wetland Bird and Amphibian Survey Technicians will:

Work as a crew to prepare for and conduct point count surveys of wetland birds and calling amphibians in the field using standardized survey protocols;

  • Enter survey data into an online database throughout and/or after the field season; and
  •  Assist the Aquatic Surveys Biologist to complete other tasks associated with the project as needed.

These are salaried term contract positions:

  • One contract begins on 26 March 2012 and extends 19 weeks in duration, ending on 3 August 2012.
  • The other contract begins on 14 May 2012 and extends 12 weeks in duration, ending on 3 August 2012.

Successful candidates will be required to attend a mandatory one-day training session in mid- March 2012 at Bird Studies Canada headquarters in Port Rowan, Ontario, although alternative arrangements are possible if excessive travel prevents attendance.

To qualify for the position, the successful applicant must:

  • be a Canadian citizen;
  • have a valid passport and be able to travel in Canada and the United States of America;
  • have a valid drivers license;
  • have canoeing skills and be certified (or can easily be certified) to operate small outboard boat motors and small vessels in Ontario;
  • have demonstrated ability to identify birds by sight and sound and frogs and toads by sound that breed in southern and central Ontario wetlands (e.g., treed swamps, wet meadows, marshes); and
  • be able to camp and work outdoors under harsh conditions (heat, biting insects) for long periods of time, including working outdoors at night to survey calling amphibians.

The applicant should also:

  • at a minimum, possess a Bachelor of Science or equivalent community college diploma in biological science, environmental science, wildlife/natural resource studies, or another similar subject;
  • be familiar with Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program survey protocols or similar bird and amphibian field survey techniques;
  • have excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills;
  • have proficient computer skills with typical applications like MS Word and Excel;
  • have practical knowledge and experience using maps and GPSs;
  • have a demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a group;
  • have valid First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification; and
  • be willing and able to travel to Port Rowan, Ontario at her/his expense.

Value of Term Contract

$2,100-$2,500/month, depending on experience, plus transportation, accommodation, and food covered by the project during field work.

Competition open until 1 March 2012 or until suitable candidates found. Qualified candidates should submit an application that: 1) outlines how they meet the qualifications outlined above; 2) includes names, titles, and contact information (including e-mail addresses) of at least three references; and 3) indicates availability for one or the other or both of the two contracts described above, to:

Dr. Doug Tozer
Aquatic Surveys Biologist
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, Ontario N0E 1M0
e-mail: dtozer@birdscanada.org

Applications submitted as e-mail attachments are preferred.

[Bird Studies Canada appreciates the interest of all of those who apply for this position, but only those applicants who qualify for an interview will be contacted.]

MARSH BIRD RESEARCH TECHNICIANS

Bird Studies Canada invites applicants for seasonal research technicians to work for the Prairie & Parkland Marsh Monitoring Program. Successful applicants will conduct ecological fieldwork at locations in Canadas Prairie Provinces.

Duties include:

  • avian point-counts using call-broadcast methods,
  • establishment of survey stations,
  • assessments of wetland habitats,
  • assisting with bird capture and banding efforts,
  • and data entry.

Ideal candidates will be

  • detail-oriented,
  • self-organized,
  • motivated,
  • energetic team players.

Applicants should have

  • a keen interest in birds,
  • be in good physical condition,
  • possess a strong work ethic,
  • have an ability to multitask,
  • be meticulous in collecting and recording data,
  • and be able to maintain a positive attitude while working long, irregular hours (morning surveys begin as early as 4 a.m., evening/night surveys can end as late as 3 a.m.).

Candidates need to be able to

  • demonstrate proficiency at identifying western birds by sight and sound (particularly wetland-associated species and land birds likely to occur within the region),
  • must hold a valid drivers license,
  • and be eligible to work in Canada.

Salary from $1,900 to $2,300/month (Cdn.), depending on experience; accommodation will be provided (some combination of houses, motels, and camping). Preference will be given to candidates who have prior experience conducting avian point counts, identifying common wetland flora, driving 4WD trucks, traveling by kayak or canoe, interacting with rural landowners, and navigating using maps, aerial photos, and GPS. Positions range from 1.5-3.5 months beginning early- to mid-May and ending 30 June, 31 July, or 15 August. For more information or to apply, contact prairieprograms@birdscanada.org. Applications should address Dr. Kiel Drake; please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references. In the cover letter, provide an honest assessment of your bird identification skills. Positions filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. Applications accepted until 29 February, 2012. For more information about the Prairie & Parkland Marsh Monitoring Program visit www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/ppmmp.

LONG POINT BIRD OBSERVATORY VOLUNTEER FIELD BIOLOGISTS NEEDED SPRING AND FALL MIGRATION MONITORING PROGRAM:

Located on the north shore of Lake Erie, Long Point is one of the last wild areas left in southern Ontario. The region is an internationally recognized World Biosphere Reserve, a Globally Important Bird Area, and supports a fantastic diversity of habitats, plants and animals. During migration huge numbers of birds (and monarch butterflies) are funnelled through Long Point. Founded in 1960, Long Point Bird Observatory (LPBO) is North America's oldest bird observatory and has banded over 800,000 birds. The core program is centred on monitoring populations of migrating birds through daily census and banding routines at three field stations. Volunteers staying for at least 1 month have food and accommodation fees waived. Short-term volunteers are required to pay a nominal fee covering housing, food and training. Up to 14 volunteers are required for all or a part of the spring (5 April to 10 June) and fall field seasons (10 August - 15 November). Previous ornithological work (including bird banding) and excellent bird identification skills are preferred, but not essential. All participants will experience intensive and diverse training in field ornithological techniques. International applicants with good English skills are encouraged to apply. Email or mail your resume with three references (include phone and e-mail addresses) and a completed application form which can be downloaded from our website to:

LPBO Assistant Landbird Programs Coordinator,
Long Point Bird Observatory c/o Bird Studies Canada,
P.O. Box 160 115 Front Rd.,
Port Rowan, Ontario, Canada N0E 1M0,
519-586-3531 (ext. 162);
Fax: 519-586-3532,
Email: lpbo@ birdscanada.org .

LONG POINT BIRD OBSERVATORY VOLUNTEER BREEDING BIRD CENSUS ASSISTANT POSITIONS (3):

Located on the north shore of Lake Erie, Long Point is one of the last wild areas left in southern Ontario. The region is an internationally recognized World Biosphere Reserve, a Globally Important Bird Area and supports a fantastic diversity of habitats, plants, and animals. Founded in 1960, Long Point Bird Observatory (LPBO) is North America's oldest bird observatory. For the upccoming field season up to three field assistants are needed to work on the Breeding Bird Census (BBC) project (25 May to 5 July). They will receive accommodation and food, as well as intensive training from LPBO staff. BBC assistants must have excellent skills in identification of eastern North American birds by sight and sound. LPBO has established 15, 10-hectare plots in various vegetative communities across the dunes and marshes of Long Point, with four sampled each year. Assistants rise very early and commute by ATV, boat or foot, to arrive at their study sites at dawn. Over the next few hours they map the locations of all singing birds, look for nests, then determine the number of bird territories on the plot. Previous ornithological work conducting point counts, spot mapping or nest searching is preferred, but not essential. Email or mail your resume with three references (including phone and e-mail addresses) and a completed application form which can be downloaded from our website to:

LPBO Assistant Landbird Programs Coordinator,
Long Point Bird Observatory c/o Bird Studies Canada,
P.O. Box 160 115 Front Rd.,
Port Rowan, Ontario, Canada N0E 1M0,
519-586-3531 (ext. 162);
Fax: 519-586-3532;
Email: lpbo@birdscanada.org .

BIRD STUDIES CANADA - LONG POINT BIRD OBSERVATORY & UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH  - VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS

Volunteer Field Assistants needed for a long-term study of breeding ecology of Tree Swallows at Long Point Bird Observatory, Ontario. Main objective is to examine the effects of environmental conditions, including climate change and the abundance of the swallows' insect food supply, on breeding performance; but other topics are also under investigation. Assistants required between 15 April and 16 August: 2 in April, 3 from about 1 May to 10 July; 3 additional assistants needed from about 29 May to 26 June; 1, mainly for data management and some fieldwork, 1 July to 16 August. Previous experience not necessary, but it is essential that you are willing to work long and irregular hours with minimal supervision. Room and board provided. Time commitments of 4+ weeks preferred. Work involves checking nest boxes, weighing eggs and young, banding adults and young, sampling insects, etc., at 3 sites (2 on mainland, 1 at tip of Long Point, Lake Erie). Assistants can expect to gain valuable experience in a stimulating environment and may have opportunities to participate in other LPBO programs including banding migrant birds in May. For more information select this link. Send cover letter and brief resume and application form (indicate dates available and whether you hold a driver's license) to:

Dr. Ryan Norris,
Department of Integrative Biology,
University of Guelph,
Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1.
office ph: 519-824-4120; ext 56300,
office: NSC 2451, lab: NSC 2403/2404,
e-mail: rnorris@uoguelph.ca,
web-site: www.uoguelph.ca/~rnorris

Deadline for applications is 15 April 2012. Late applications will be considered if positions still available.

Visit our web site for more information about the volunteer programs at Long Point Bird Observatory and a downloadable application form.

VOLUNTEER FIELD POSITIONS

available, monitoring bird migration activities at Thunder Cape Bird Observatory (TCBO), Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. The field season runs from late Apr to mid June in the spring and from late July to early November in the fall. Volunteers will be involved in mistnetting, banding, and censusing migratory birds, including passerines, hawks and owls. TCBO, located at the tip of the Sibley Peninsula, is bordered by Lake Superior and Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. We provide comfortable facilities in a beautiful wilderness setting. Volunteers staying over 2 weeks will have accommodation and food provided free. Experience is preferred, but TCBO also aims to provide an excellent opportunity for those eager to learn. Volunteers will be accepted throughout the season. Additional information can be found on our website. Questions and resumes can be directed to Allan Gilbert, Chair, Thunder Cape Observatory Committee, c/o Thunder Bay Field Naturalists, P.O. Box 10037, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6T6 Email: agilbert@lakeheadu.ca Website: www.tbfn.net/thunder-cape-bird-observatory.









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