GCWA Research Volunteer Opportunity @ Balcones Canyonlands NWR

Dear Volunteer,

We are looking for up to ten volunteers to help locate golden-cheeked warblers that are part of an important biological research project. These birds were fitted with tiny devices called geolocators last spring and need to be found upon their return this spring to Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. Read about the project here: Backpacks for Birds Article.

Opportunity Details:
Hiking through remote areas of the Refuge, volunteers will search for golden-cheeked warblers fitted with geolocators, and record the locations of these birds using global positioning system (GPS) units. The refuge biologist will then return and try to recapture the warblers to remove the geolocators. There may be an additional opportunity for volunteers to assist on one of these recapture days.  The Refuge will provide volunteers a GPS unit and other safety gear to use while working on this project.  However, you must provide your own binoculars.

Dates:
This warbler locating project will take place March 12-16, March 19-23, and March 26-30, 2018. You do not need to sign up for every day, but the more you are available the more likely you are to be selected for this project.

Training is Required:
March 7 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters
Classroom and field training will include using a GPS unit, filling out data sheets, navigating remote areas, safety, and golden-cheeked warbler ID and calls. Bring your own lunch and binoculars.

Volunteers who have the following are encouraged to apply:

• Birding experience
• Your own binoculars
• You must be physically capable to walk off trail on uneven terrain, steep hills, through dense brush, and over obstacles (rocks, stumps, logs, etc.)
• You must feel comfortable working alone in remote areas with various hazards associated with such areas

Apply by February 20: email Scott_ [email protected] with your interest in taking the training, availability in March, and any related experience you may have. We will send out selection confirmations on Friday, February 23.

Thank you and we look forward to working with you for this exciting opportunity