The Wildlife Medical Clinic is looking for Academic Year Undergraduate Volunteers. Apply using this link by August 15th: https://vetmed.illinois.edu/hospital/wildlife-medical-clinic/students/academic-year-program/
The Wildlife Medical Clinic at Illinois relies on student volunteers all over campus to provide care to wildlife patients as well as our permanent residents (our Wildlife Ambassadors). The WMC has 2 branches, the clinic/medical program and the ambassador program; you can be involved in either or both.
Clinic/Medical Branch:
Assist in the care, rehabilitation, and eventual transfer/release of wildlife patients brought in by the public. This is popular with pre-vet and vet students due to the hands-on experience with medical procedures, but it's also valuable to those interested in wildlife epidemiology, public health, and/or population dynamics. We see some cool species, like pelicans, bald eagles, songbirds, all kinds of mammals, and more! We also facilitate research projects through our patients. Right now we have studies in the data collection stage on eastern cottontails, red foxes, and virginia opossums. Expect a 5-10 hour-per week time commitment, especially during "orphan season". Responsibilities include attending educational meetings, triaging incoming patients, treatment shifts for current patients, and orphan feeding shifts.
Ambassador Program:
Assist in the care, enrichment, and training of our permanent resident Wildlife Ambassadors. We currently house 2 red-tailed hawks, 1 american kestrel, 1 barred owl, 1 bald eagle, 3 reptiles, and 1 virginia opossum. In addition to caring for these animals, you will also work with them to educate the public on native wildlife! This is a great option if you're interested in public education, captive management of wildlife (like a zoo/sanctuary setting), or really any non-profit involving wildlife. This is a popular avenue for NRES undergrads for these reasons. Expect a 5-hour per week commitment, usually 2 animal care shifts a week, 1-2 PR events per semester, and a monthly meeting.
With more questions about either program, feel free to email: WMCChair@vetmed.illinois.edu.
