Volunteer Opportunities
Trained volunteers are key to gathering the core of our research data. Each spring we recruit new volunteers. A one-evening training session and an in-the-field orientation are required for new volunteers. Volunteers are expected to visit their assigned colonies at least once every two weeks during late May, June, July and August.

The survey also includes more concentrated study during the period when the young are being fed in the burrows. Focused research at this time will shed light on the success of fledglings and the species of fish used to feed the young.

Our volunteer team has great enthusiasm for and interest in stewarding their colonies. The survey experience offers them an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a citizen science project. Many also find it a delightful excuse for observing and enjoying our nearshore environment.

To join our Whidbey Guillemot Survey or for information to help organize a similar program in your area contact Frances Wood, 360-341-2326, wood@whidbey.com, or Phyllis Kind, 360-331-6337, phizhawk@whidbey.com.

Intern Opportunities
Supported by the Whidbey Audubon Society and the Island County Marine Resources Committee we have been surveying Pigeon Guillemot colonies on Whidbey Island for the past five years. When funds are available we hire an intern to help study the colonies more intensively during June, July and August. Please read the description of our Whidbey Guillemot Survey. We are looking for independent-working interns who can assist the project during June, July and August. Someone studying marine birds, the nearshore environment, or related marine ecology topics would be a close match for our needs. Phyllis Kind, Ph. D., Prof. Emerita of Microbiology and Immunology and of Genetics at George Washington University and who serves on the Northwest Straights Commission and the Island County Marine Research Committee will directly supervise the intern.

Interns will be trained to use our TreeTop Peeper camera mounted on an extension pole to observe burrow activity. Strength and agility are required to carry the camera and pole down the beach and to maneuver the camera into position. The intern will use the equipment to inspect selected burrows and record observations such as the number of eggs, the survival and development of the chicks and the date of fledging. In addition, we will ask the intern to study one or two colonies intensively, recording the activities of the birds throughout the day.

Contact:

Frances Wood, 360-341-2326 wood@whidbey.com

Phyllis Kind, Ph.D. 360-331-6337 phizhawk@whidbey.com