Summer Internship - Avian Rehabilitation

Avian Haven Internship Program
Freedom, Maine
Wildlife Rehabilitation Intern | Summer 2026
About Avian Haven
Avian Haven is one of the largest bird-only wildlife rehabilitation centers in New England. Located on a large property in central Maine, we care for approximately 3,000 wild birds each year. Our busiest season runs from May through August, coinciding with the peak internship period.
The goal of this internship is to provide a comprehensive introduction to avian wildlife rehabilitation. Interns gain hands-on experience caring for a wide range of wild bird species—from hatchlings to adults—over an 11–12 week period (depending on start date).
Interns are integral members of the Avian Haven team and play an important role in advancing our mission: the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of Maine’s injured, sick, and orphaned wild birds. Each intern receives a personalized learning binder to support training objectives and skill development throughout the program.

Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Assisting staff with daily food preparation, husbandry, and animal care
Monitoring bird health and behavior and reporting observations to animal care staff
Participating in hands-on learning experiences, including animal handling, medical procedures, enrichment, and habitat design
Supporting and monitoring volunteers as needed
Maintaining accurate records related to animal care and observations
Handling birds in high-stress situations while following established safety protocols
Contributing to a collaborative team environment
Assisting with housekeeping tasks to ensure a clean, safe, and functional facility for staff and patients

Qualifications
At least 18 years of age
Ability to work 30–40 hours per week (3–4 days/week) for up to 12 weeks
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Physical ability to stand, sit, or kneel for extended periods in varying temperatures
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
Emotional resilience in a high-mortality wildlife rehabilitation setting
Comfort handling deceased animals and preparing protein sources for patients
Up-to-date tetanus vaccination

Benefits
On-site housing available for up to two interns
Small stipend available for full-time interns
Extensive hands-on experience in capture, restraint, nutrition, and avian medical care
Opportunities to network and work closely with wildlife rehabilitation professionals

Equal Opportunity Statement
Avian Haven does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law in its programs and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access to programs and services.

Application Process
Application Period: December 19, 2025 – February 14, 2026
Beginning January 13, 2026, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
To Apply:
Email the following materials to admin@avianhaven.org
Subject Line: 2026 Summer Internship – Your Name
Please include:
Resume
Cover letter
Three (3) letters of recommendation

For more information about Avian Haven, visit avianhaven.org.
For questions or clarifications, please contact:
Barbara Haney, Executive Director - director@avianhaven.org

For more information about Avian Haven, visit avianhaven.org.
For questions or clarifications, please contact:
Barbara Haney, Executive Director - director@avianhaven.org