Credit: Larry Emerson
Why volunteer? Volunteers play a vital role in providing an exciting and educational experience for the more than 175 million annual visitors to AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. Volunteers donate their time and talents to interpret exhibits, lead educational programs, help maintain zoo grounds and exhibits, work special events or assist with the care of the animals. If you're thinking of working at a zoo or aquarium, volunteering is a great way to get some experience.
Opportunities for Young People
Many zoos and aquariums offer Teen Volunteer or Junior Zoo Keeper programs. Typically run during the summer, these programs include classroom instruction as well as an opportunity to work with animals and the public. They're also an excellent introduction to a zoo or aquarium career. Check your local AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium to see if there's a program near you.
Benefits for Volunteers
Volunteering at an AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium has many benefits. You can receive education and training, discounts on admission and membership, have a chance to participate in special trips and events, and attend related lectures. You'll make some terrific new friends. You could also play an important role in educating the public about animals and conservation.
Types of Volunteer Opportunities
Here are some examples of the volunteer opportunities in AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. Which ones interest you?
Animal Care
Animal Care volunteers roll up their sleeves and get dirty. An animal care volunteer might:
- Prepare animal diets
- Provide behavioral enrichment
- Clean animal enclosures
Conservation Education
Conservation Education volunteers educate visitors about animals, habitats, and conservation. A Conservation Education volunteer might:
- Assist in animal demonstrations and classes
- Provide animal encounters for zoo and aquarium visitors
- Become aquarium divers, if SCUBA certified
Conservation and Research
Conservation and Research volunteers help to gather data crucial to understanding animal health, behavior, and conservation of the species. Conservation and Research volunteers might:
- Observe individuals and groups of animals and record their behaviors
- Collect data for research projects
- Participate in habitat restoration
Visitor Services
Visitor Services volunteers help the people who visit zoos and aquarium have the best possible experience. Visitor Services volunteers might:
- Greet visitors as they arrive, provide orientations and maps, and answer questions
- Assist visitors with special needs
- Work in the gift shop
And if you're interested in plants, zoos and aquariums need Horticulture volunteers to help maintain the grounds as well as special gardens, such as native plants and butterfly gardens.
How to Volunteer
If you are interested in volunteering, contact the AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium nearest you. Make sure you ask about upcoming volunteer orientations, which are a great way to meet the staff, other volunteers and to find out which volunteer opportunities are available.