Bird Husbandry Volunteer

Closing Date: 21/08/2026
Apply
All Locations
Slimbridge
What type of role are you interested in
Volunteer
Animal care/living collections

About The Role

Our Aviculture team are responsible for the care, breeding, rearing, and welfare of WWT’s “Living Collection” of birds. This role involves working directly with the birds within our collections of rare and endangered waterfowl species from around the world. We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who want to be part of the team continuing our practice of excellent animal welfare and husbandry.

You will undertake recurring daily husbandry routines, such as preparing food & feeding birds, recording data, cleaning & maintenance of equipment and facilities, and implementing biosecurity measures. This is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in bird husbandry and be involved in internationally important conservation.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team, and we wouldn’t be able to maintain our internationally important wetland sites without their help. You will receive a very warm welcome, full induction & training, and be provided with any necessary equipment, uniforms, and anything else needed to thrive in your role.

About You

No previous experience is required for this role as full training will be provided, and a willingness to learn new skills is more important.

This role would suit you if:

  • You have (or would like to gain) experience in bird husbandry
  • You feel confident in talking to and engaging with members of the public
  • You are physically fit and practically minded
  • You have an interest in and enthusiasm for the work of WWT
  • You enjoy working as part of a team of staff and volunteers
  • You have a strong commitment to excellent customer service
  • You are reliable and committed
  • You are willing to get stuck into working outdoors and in all weathers

 

Additional notes

  • We are looking for volunteers who are available to help out 2-3 days per week (particularly weekends) from 8am-4.30pm for a minimum of 6 weeks. This can reduce to 1 day a week when sufficient training has been completed.
  • This role is not suitable for people under 18 years.

About Us

We are WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn new skills or spend time in our wildlife-rich wetlands, there’s a volunteer role for you. Just a few hours spent volunteering can really make a world of difference to our wildlife, and to you.

So, come surround yourself with the wonder of wetlands, and the people who inject their energy and passion into them. Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. The only question left is, what role will you play?

 

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT 

  • Make a real contribution to the conservation and engagement work of WWT
  • Work at one of our beautiful and internationally important wetland sites
  • Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded nature lovers who bring energy, passion, and expertise to their role
  • Make new friends and become part of a friendly and inclusive community
  • Gain volunteering experience and learn & develop new skills
  • Get volunteer discounts for WWT shops, café, and membership
  • Get free entry to all our UK wetland centres, including for your family
  • Receive access to wildlife talks, webinars, and practical information to help you manage your volunteer role & daily life
  • Be kept informed about what’s happening in our organisation and the positive change you are helping to make happen

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