Mammal Department Gorilla/ Small Mammals - Fall Internship
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.
Responsibilities: The purpose of an internship in our Mammal Department is to gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of Riverbank’s mission and how it is achieved through various functions and operations throughout the zoo and garden. While interning with the Mammal Department you will observe and participate in the overall operation of the zoological facility. You will gain exposure to other departments that support the individual function and goals of the Mammal Department. During your internship at Riverbanks, you will be exposed to a variety of management styles and approaches.
Gorilla/Small Mammals Internship includes the following three areas:
• Ndoki Forest: Western Lowland Gorilla and Slender-tailed Meerkat
• Kangaroo Walkabout: Red Kangaroo and Red-necked Wallaby
• Riverbanks Conservation Outpost: Ring-tailed Lemur, Red-ruffed Lemur, Golden-lion Tamarin, Saki Monkey, Squirrel Monkey, Hoffmann’s Two-toed Sloth, Binturong, Prehensile-tailed Porcupine, Black-footed Cat and Fishing Cat.
The categories of study during the internship include:
• Assist with daily maintenance of animal enclosures and exhibits.
• Assist with daily maintenance of keeper areas. This includes cleaning dishes, daily laundry, etc.
• Learn about animal nutrition and prepare diets.
• Learn about animal behaviors in both captive and natural environments.
• Operant Conditioning:
o Observe operant conditioning techniques of animals in human care.
o Learn how keepers weigh animals monthly. Interns will be allowed to assist keepers in weighing certain species.
• Enrichment:
o Design and implement environmental enrichment techniques.
o Assist keepers in observing animals with new enrichment items and completing evaluation forms.
• Observe animal keepers and veterinarians during medical procedures.
• Attend department meetings.
Education and Experience: Internships are open to qualified graduates and undergraduates seeking degrees in biology or related fields. Applicants must be able to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays. Must be able to bend, stoop or stand for long periods of time. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Commit to a minimum of 3 months for 40 hours a week. Must provide proof of a current Tuberculin skin test. Proper PPE (face masks) must be utilized in sensitive animal areas.