Animal Care Internship Aviary - Spring 2026

Animal Care Internship Aviary - Spring 2026

Internship Period : February 24, 2026-May 29, 2026

Deadline to Apply : SPOTS ARE LIMITED-Apply today to join our Spring 2026 Aviary Internship and launch your future in wildlife care.

Step into the Wild Side of Conservation.

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity working alongside a variety of Avian species? The Aviary Team Internship at ZooTampa offers hands-on experience in animal husbandry, behavioral training, and real-time conservation education. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with professional animal care staff, gaining behind-the-scenes insight while building skills that pave the way for a career in zoology or wildlife management. From collecting behavioral data to creating enrichment and engaging with guests, every day is a chance to grow personally and professionally in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. If you're passionate, hardworking, and eager to learn, we want to hear from you!

Animal Care Internship, Aviary

Please note : If you are seeking an Animal Care internship, do NOT apply for more than two internships per term; applying to more than two may result in disqualification.

Description :

While working in the Aviary Department, interns will learn about the husbandry and behavior of diverse avian species within large aviaries which include, but not limited to; African Penguins, Shoebill Storks, African and Asian hornbills, Various Parrot species, waterfowl, wading birds, and many more! Interns who successfully complete the 14 week internship will have a better understanding of basic avian biology, anatomy, and avian husbandry. There is an online course to supplement and expand upon the in-person experiences gained during this internship.

Internship functions include, but are not limited to :

• Performing daily care of the animals alongside the keepers.
• Diet preparation, cleaning, disinfecting utensils / dishes for the animals in the collection.
• Assist in cleaning animal habitats in both guest areas and non-guest areas.
• Engaging with guests in our interactive habitats such as our Lorikeet Landing Aviary and African Penguin Chat.
• Assisting with maintenance of animal habitats which may include but not limited to; scrubbing, hosing, raking, planting, perching, pressure washing, digging.
• Assist with behavioral observations and daily record keeping.
• Design a large scale animal enrichment for the birds under our care.
• Research (3) species under our care and perform a Natural History Form on said species.

Qualifications :

Required Availability :

Physical Abilities :

Additional Requirements : If an internship offer is made, it is contingent on :

Applicants must submit an Internship Application, cover letter, and resume in order to be considered for a position.

Benefits :

Internships are unpaid and are designed to meet academic requirements, as applicable, and provide valuable real-world experience for participants. Successful completion of an internship may also yield letters of recommendation, a portfolio of their work when applicable, and important networking contacts. Potential academic credit may be available subject to program eligibility requirements. Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their school before beginning the internship. Successful completion of an internship may also yield letters of recommendation, a portfolio of their work when applicable, and important networking contacts.

Who is eligible?

High school diploma or GED is required. Applicants currently pursuing a degree in any of the biological or life sciences are preferred.

International Internship Eligibility Requirements :

Please note that ZooTampa is unable to offer sponsorship for student or work visas for this internship position. Only applicants who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship will be considered.

Please Note : Interns must make their own accommodation and transportation arrangements. This is an unpaid internship.

Please visit https : / / zootampa.org / intern-at-zootampa / for more information .

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