Each summer about 30 volunteers work side by side with our research staff on all seven sanctuaries managed by NAS in the Gulf of Maine. Students, naturalists, aviculturists, avid birders, and biologists give their time and energy to assist our research. The goal of the volunteer program is to provide an opportunity to participate in an outstanding program of research and study, while enjoying seabirds and an unparalleled outdoor experience. Commitments range from two to twelve weeks. Volunteers assist in all aspects of our research including banding, band reading, burrow monitoring, feeding and productivity studies. Volunteers will assist with field studies on puffins, terns and other species. Must be over 18 years old and available for a minimum of two weeks between June 1 and July 30, with exact dates to be negotiated depending on schedule openings. Volunteers contributing $1500 or more will receive preference for available openings. The Project Puffin volunteer program meets the needs of a variety of individuals:

Contributing  Research  Assistant	Project Puffin offers up to nine Contributing Research Assistant positions. These reserved positions are blocked during the three periods of greatest seabird activity at our colonies and are designed to provide full participation in our research. Donations defray the cost of meals provided and transportation from our base to and from the research site. Funds support student research positions.
Aviculturist	Individuals employed in aviculture or related fields. Participants gain valuable field experience while increasing their knowledge of colonial seabirds and research techniques. Participating organizations include: Sea World (FL, TX, CA), New England Aquarium (MA), National Aquarium (MD), San Antonio Zoo (TX), Lincoln Park Zoo (IL), and the North Carolina  Zoo.  Project Puffin encourages participating institutions to make a contribution towards field expenses.
Student	Individuals enrolled in biology, environmental studies, natural history, ornithology , science education and related fields at the college or graduate level. Participants gain valuable field experience while increasing their knowledge of colonial seabirds and research techniques. Student volunteers can participate from two to ten weeks. Student volunteers often return in subsequent years as interns.
Volunteer	If all volunteer positions are not filled by student, aviculturists and contributing research assistants, remaining positions will be filled by other applicants

 

To apply: Fill out the application (PDF Format | MS Word Format) and mail it to Project Puffin, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, New York 14850, or email it to: rborzik@audubon.org. The yearly window for submission of applications is January 1st through March 15th.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

For General Information and Questions: puffin@audubon.org

Mailing Address: Project Puffin 159 Sapsucker Woods Road Ithaca, New York 14850 607-257-7308