Bird Banding Apprenticeships

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is one of the premier fall bird migration sites in North America. Raptor migration research and education have been conducted at the site for over 50 years! It’s the western-most count on the Great Lakes with an advantageous location on a rocky ridge overlooking the western tip of Lake Superior. Annual fall averages include 75,000 raptors and 200,000+ passerines/other birds counted and approximately 3,000 raptors banded. Fall migration highlights include an amazing diversity of 15-20 different raptor species! The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory (HRBO) in Duluth, MN is the non-profit organization that manages and provides bird research and education at the nature reserve. The fall research and education staff of HRBO are key representatives in HRBO’s mission of protecting birds of prey and other migratory birds in the Western Lake Superior Region through research, education, and stewardship.

HRBO is offering two Bird Banding Apprenticeships for those seeking to train and gain further skills pertaining to bird banding research. Training will primarily focus on raptor banding (hawks and owls), but also have opportunities for passerine banding (songbirds).  The goal of the apprenticeship program is to provide an opportunity to gain hands-on field training experience to help assist with future research projects, as part of their career or higher-level education. Apprentices will train with key staff with extensive knowledge and expertise in the field.

The Bird Banding Apprenticeships run for 9 weeks from August 30th to October 31st, 2023 (with potential extension of 2-3 weeks before/after). A stipend of $250 per week and lodging is provided. In order to apply, apprentices must have at least 1 prior position/training/seasonal field experience with bird banding and an intent to continue to pursue a career or higher-level education related to ornithology. Apprentices must have an undergraduate degree and a valid driver’s license with a personal vehicle for transportation.

To apply for the Bird Banding Apprenticeship position, please go to hawkridge.org/about-us/employment-internships to find and submit the application form. You will attach your cover letter and resume through that link. Applications will be accepted until filled (note: applications are encouraged and preferred by Friday, May 5, 2023).

Please include in your cover letter and/or resume:

1. A description of the skills you hope to obtain through the banding apprenticeship program

2. A description of your educational and/or career goals upon completion of your apprenticeship

3. A description of courses/training and/or work experiences relevant to bird banding

For further information, please visit our website at www.hawkridge.org. For questions, please email apply@hawkridge.org or call (218) 428-6209.