April 14, 2006
Raptor Docent Training
The Raptor Docent Program at The Arboretum at Flagstaff is public education about native birds of prey. What does that really mean? Basically, it means docents help people learn about raptors in their natural habitat. Educators provide visitors with accurate information on the natural history and biology of the program birds. They interpret free flight programs and encourage questions. Their job is to provide information for all learning levels. To find out how you can become a Raptor Docent...keep reading!
A Raptor Program Docent is a trained volunteer who maintains a level of expertise about birds of prey.
As a protector, though rare, you may come in contact with visitors who are not respectful of the Arboretum’s regulations or those who pose a potential threat to the birds. Docents act as protectors of both visitors and birds to ensure a safe environment for the educational programs.
RAPTOR DOCENT POSITIONS
TITLE: Program Interpreter
This docent will interpret the majority of the program. They must keep a watchful eye, at all times on the bird being presented. This docent must have a good rapport with people, must be able to project their voice to accommodate a large group and have an in-depth understanding of birds of prey.
TITLE: Program Greeter
The greeter will assist the interpreter. He or she will monitor the group before during and after the program by greeting guests as they arrive to the program area, helping visitors who arrive late and making sure the group stays within the physical program boundaries. The Greeter must be alert, friendly, and helpful, making sure that each visitor has a safe and memorable time.
TITLE: Bird Handlers Assistant
This docent will assist in the handling, training, and flying of the program birds. Assistant bird handlers help ready birds before a program and release and retrieve birds during the programs. The assistant will help present birds during the question and answer period at the end of the program. He or she must have an in-depth understanding of the birds they are presenting.
Docent Qualifications:
A positive and enthusiastic attitude toward engaging people in conversation.
Ability to communicate well with others and be sensitive to their needs and views.
Ability to work independently and resourcefully in accordance with the Arboretum’s guidelines.
Good verbal and observational skills.
Requirements:
Read and know the Raptor Docent Manual
Learn about different birds of prey; use information provided to understand the importance of the species and their habitat.
Be available to volunteer on weekends
Commit to a schedule made well in advance, including holidays
Wear appropriate clothing
$25 training fee
25 hours of volunteer service during the calendar year
Benefits/Opportunities:
Expand your awareness, understanding, sensitivity, and appreciation for our local natural areas and wildlife
Participate in educating others
Become part of a dedicated volunteer program
Attend occasional social dinner-meetings with other docents to share stories and discuss your experiences working with the Raptor Program
Attend ongoing training sessions
Training Schedule
All training sessions for raptor docents will take place in the classroom of the Horticulture Center at The Arboretum at Flagstaff on Tuesday afternoons from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. on the following dates:
May 2
May 9
May 16
May 23
May 30
Topics covered during training include:
-Basic bird handling and falconry techniques
-Making positive contact with the public
-Characteristics about the following birds: American Kestrel, Gryfalcon, Peregrine Falcon, Harris’ Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Great-horned Owl, etc.
-Information about wild bird rehabilitation methods
Please contact Rachel Edelstein at 774-1442, ext.110 or rachel.edelstein@nau.edu if you would like to join the 2006 Raptor Docent Training Class. Follow this link to print out a docent application form: http://www.thearb.org/raptor_docent_training.htm