Currently Available Sources of Information How to Prepare Experience with birds Any background of work with birds or wildlife is an asset, especially experience in the field observing, identifying, capturing, and marking wild birds. Ornithological careers often spring from an interest in birds, particularly bird watching. Many ornithologists first became interested in birds at an early age. Because experienced applicants for jobs have an advantage over newcomers, aspiring ornithologists of all ages should try to take advantage of opportunities to gain field and research experience as volunteers or seasonal employees. Volunteers can obtain positions at universities or colleges, state and national parks, wildlife refuges, museums, zoos, or field stations where ornithological research is conducted.
Employers often fill vacancies with well trained former volunteers.
Newsletter, published by the American Ornithologists' Union and other major United States ornithological societies - advertises job opportunities, paid and volunteer. You can receive this publication as one of your membership benefits if you join one of the sponsoring societies. Joining regional or state ornithological societies or bird clubs will also help you to meet other individuals who share your interest, and enable you to become involved in local projects. College Training A list of United States and Canadian colleges that offer ornithology courses and advanced degrees in the biological sciences is provided in The College Blue Book, Volumes I and III, published by MacMillan Publishing Company of New York. This standard source is available in most local libraries and may be reviewed and purchased on the internet.