This is a required training for anyone interested in volunteering to take care of the animals living at the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Nature Center.
Candidates will be screened upon finishing their training and assessed on the skills and knowledge that is needed to perform animal care duties. Upon successful completion of this training you will be qualified to complete animal care duties independently.
Once trained, Animal Care volunteers will be asked to dedicate at least 2 shifts per month to this program. Animal Care shifts are typically 2 hours, from 9-11 a.m.
This is a training for basic animal care and DOES NOT involve care for our raptors.
Who We Are
Animal Care volunteers work with the staff naturalists to care for live animals.
What We Do
Calvert Steward volunteers feed the fish, turtles, snakes, frogs and mice housed at the Cypress Swamp Nature Center. Other tasks include cleaning cages, scrubbing turtles, and weighing food for the raptors.
Volunteers work with the animals to acclimate them to people and background noises they will encounter when used for education and outreach programs.
Some volunteers assist with education and outreach activities that involve the captive animals.
During this training, volunteers will learn how to clean cages, feed the animals and handle them. Once trained, volunteers can edit the "Qualifications" section of their profile. After the program manager has verified their training, qualified Calvert Stewards can respond to be the volunteer for the specific dates and times listed.
Other Skills or Knowledge Required:- Experience working with captive animals is a plus
- At ease with a variety of animals including snakes, mice, and raptors
- Able to carry a 10 pound bucket of water
- Willing to get dirty
- Maintain accurate records
For more information, please contact Kim Curren at Kimberly.Curren@calvertcountymd.gov
