Volunteer Positions

Internships

Animal Sponsors

Wish List

Workplace and Direct Donations

Vehicle Donations

• an aquatic habitat within 1000 sq. ft. for water turtles
• small pond for rehabilitating native turtles
• small box turtle habitat of about 150 sq. ft.
• large box turtle habitat of about 900 sq. ft.
• habitat of native box turtles of about 1,000 sq. ft.
• desert tortoise habitat of 5000 sq. ft.
• sulcata tortoise habitat of 700 sq. ft.

  Our primary objectives are to shelter and find homes for animals who cannot be returned to the wild, and return native species to their natural, wild habitat once they are rehabilitated.
  
  An internship at Colorado Reptile Humane Society provides opportunities to gain hands-on experience working with many different reptile and amphibian species, including captive-bred foreign and native-born wildlife. This includes daily observations of eating and other normal behaviors, habitat development, enrichment, and maintenance, growth measurements, and socialization where appropriate.
  
  CoRHS interns learn skills such as safe animal handling techniques, cleaning and disinfection procedures, habitat enrichment, diets, food preparation and feeding methods, and assist experienced staff and volunteers with first-aid treatment procedures.
  
  Field Work
  During the summer of 2009, CoRHS continues studies on wild T. o. ornata, our native ornate box turtle (see Colorado Box Turtle Project for more details). This work takes place at various locations on the eastern plains, involves working as part of a team, and field data recording. All interns will participate in field data collection events. We like to describe fieldwork as "punctuated boredom" -- be ready for long hours and tedious observations (though of course fascinating) in the hot Colorado sun!

  Expectations
  Interns at CoRHS are self-motivated individuals who can both work independently and as part of a team as well as follow established procedures and make suggestions for improvements. Good observational skills are critical as are writing and speaking skills. All interns are required to work during CoRHS's annual Open House, June 27th & 28th, 2009.
  
  Working Conditions
  Much of summer work takes place outdoors; Colorado summers are very hot, dry, and sunny. Resident chelonia may weigh between 20 grams and 40 kilograms (juvenile box turtles to adult sulcata tortoises). Habitat maintenance may include fence repairs, plant cultivation, and other demanding labor. You will use tools such as scales, calipers, digital camera, garden implements, wheel barrow, etc. Indoor working conditions are also hot and often also humid.

  If you are interning for school credit or have a specific school project that needs to be completed during your time with us, please let us know.

  Recommended prior experience
  Previous experience in animal care with reptile and amphibian wildlife or domesticated animals is desired. Degrees (or in progress) in the natural sciences, wildlife management, veterinary medicine, veterinary technician, or environmental education are preferred but we consider interns from any background.

  Time requirements
  We look for interns to work a minimum of six weeks, 30-40 hours per week (or more if desired) for the course of the summer.  Dates can be flexible and we can work together to form a schedule that works for everyone.

  Transportation
  Your own transportation to and from the shelter must be provided. It may be possible to car pool with staff or volunteers depending on the specifics of the situation.

  Housing
  There is currently no on-site housing at CoRHS. If you are coming from a distance, you will be responsible for finding your own housing. However, we are available to make recommendations on affordable housing in the area.

  How to Apply
  Please submit a cover letter, resume, letter of recommendation from an employer or professor, and Internship Application.
  They can be emailed to volunteer@corhs.org, faxed to 303-776-5206, or mailed to:

  Colorado Reptile Humane Society
  Attn: Summer Intern Program
  13941 Elmore Road
  Longmont, CO 80504

  Due date
  Applications are due on or before April 1st, 2009. All positions are on a volunteer, unpaid basis.

  Due to insurance reasons you must be 18 or older to apply.

  
  
  

Colorado Reptile Humane Society is licensed by the State of Colorado, Pet Animal Care Facilities Act, as an animal shelter.
Colorado Reptile Humane Society is a federal 501(c)(3)non-profit organization.

Copyright 2008 by Colorado Reptile Humane Society.