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THE RAPTOR DOCENT ROLE
The purpose of having a 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. As a docent, you play two important roles: 1) Educator 2) Protector Education includes: 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 Protection includes: 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 A Raptor Program Docent is a trained volunteer who maintains a level of expertise about birds of prey. 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:
Requirements:
Benefits/Opportunities:
Training Schedule All training for raptor docents will take place in an apprenticeship format as part of the daily raptor programs and routine bird care. Volunteer opportunities are available seven days per week. 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 Susan Ruble at 774-1442, ext.116 or rachel.edelstein@nau.edu if you would like to join the 2006 Raptor Docent Training Class. Follow this link to print out a Volunteer application form.
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Copyright © 2007 The Arboretum at Flagstaff
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