The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey has been quietly serving both the human and avian residents of Central Florida for over 40 years. Much of the hard work provided to continue their rehabilitation and rapport care efforts — as well as their community environmental education — has been generously donated by volunteers.
While they have been able to maintain a steady presence, the center is constantly searching for new volunteers.
Audubon Center for Birds of Prey volunteers get the opportunity to interact with raptors in the clinic. (COURTESY OF THE AUDUBON CENTER FOR BIRDS OF PREY)
Carrie Mohanna, the Audubon Center’s special projects coordinator, said that even with roughly 120 volunteers working at the center every week, they still need more.
“We’ve got clinic volunteers. We have volunteers that help us clean our aviaries and feed our resident birds … We have an enrichment program, so that’s making toys for birds,” Mohanna said.
The opportunities range widely for any bird lover looking to get up close and personal or preferring to watch from afar. Along with volunteers in the clinic and cleaning areas, the center also needs volunteers to assist with education efforts, food preparation and feeding of the raptors, and repairs for the habitats and perches.
Mohanna said that volunteer schedules are very flexible and can range from weekly shifts to occasional help at events. While some work, such as the raptor care, requires a bit more training and experience, there are plenty of opportunities for smaller commitments.
“Being a nonprofit organization, the value of volunteers is never underestimated here. We’re always grateful for everything they do for us,” Mohanna said.
Those interested in volunteering with the Audubon Center can apply online or via email to CBOPvolunteer@audubon.org.