Help support Barn Swallows at Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary by contributing to a community conservation project that monitors and maintains specially built nest shelves. Barn Swallows once commonly nested on barns and structures, but suitable nesting spots have become harder to find. These nest shelves provide safe, stable places for them to raise their young.
This is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, learn about wildlife up close, and directly support local bird conservation in a meaningful and ongoing way. No prior experience is needed and training will be provided.
Responsibilities
As a volunteer, you'll visit 8 nest shelves that are attached to a barn. During the breeding season (mid-April to mid-September) you will be doing the following:
Observe and record activity or non-activity at the nesting site
Note any challenges, such as use of shelves by other species like the invasive House Sparrow
Visit the nesting site every 5-7 days for a maximum of 1-minute at each nesting shelf. Minimal disturbance of the birds is critical to the success of this project
Enter your observations into NestWatch, a national community science program run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology
It is important to follow all wildlife safety guidelines, including keeping a respectful distance and never touching nests, eggs, or chicks.
Outside the breeding season (September-April), volunteers may also help check and maintain the nest shelves. These simple maintenance visits help create the best possible conditions for returning Barn Swallows.
Qualifications
Volunteers should be comfortable spending time outdoors on uneven ground and mud and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Minimal walking is involved and you can park right next to the nesting site.
You will need sturdy shoes and a pair of binoculars.
Volunteers will need to complete a CORI/SORI background check.
To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps.
