Nest Watch Volunteer (March-August)

About This Position

Help Mass Audubon track the status and trends in the reproductive biology of breeding birds at our sanctuaries by participating in the nationwide community science research program NestWatch. The NestWatch program was developed and run by the Cornel Lab of Ornithology, and utilized by Mass Audubon statewide to engage volunteers in breeding bird biology through data collection.

The Nest Watch Volunteer will be trained and responsible for collecting reproductive data on breeding birds by monitoring nest boxes at a specified sanctuary. Volunteers will learn to identify several local breeding bird species by sight and by nest structures. Common bird species to be monitored include Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, House Wren, and Black-capped Chickadee. Volunteers will be responsible for collecting and recording accurate data on a data sheet and upload it to a smartphone app regularly.

This volunteer position is needed through spring and summer, which spans the duration of the breeding bird season. Weekly requirements include visiting nest box sites at least once per week with an estimated commitment of 2 hours per week. Volunteers will be required to track their volunteer hours on the Mass Audubon Volunteer Platform.

This position requires walking on sometimes uneven terrain and through tall grass. Walking distance can be 1-2 miles, but varies by location.

The Volunteer Position will consist of both remote and in-person activities.

How To Apply

Please fill out our volunteer interest form at the following link: Volunteer Interest Form (office.com)

For more information please contact: