Volunteering at Wild Nest Birds has been an eye-opening experience. The atmosphere and the dedication that the organization has really intrigues me. I have volunteered at places before, like food banks, but this organization’s level of commitment you can sense it. I truly find it inspiring.

I don’t necessarily find anything challenging. There are no criticisms or criticisms that I have about Wild Nest. I enjoy the environment, the people, and they provide snacks! That’s why I am so thankful I chose it.

What surprised me was how comfortable the instructors were touching the mealworms and worms. I think when I saw that, I physically jumped back because she did it with no hesitation. Looking back on it, I laugh now. I’m still not comfortable touching things like that without gloves.

Also, at my last visit, when my instructor Vivina and I were in the quarantine room, two birds got loose, and the adrenaline I felt was surprising. Although I knew the door was closed so the birds couldn’t escape, seeing them fly up to the ceiling light and hysterically fly around the room definitely got my heart pumping especially after a calm shift of cleaning cages, watching my instructor make variations of salads, and seeing medication being given to the birds. One of the birds who escaped also bit my instructor, which surprised me on how hard she bit, because it drew a little blood.

The organization does have a formal training program if you want to one day become a licensed bird rehabilitator, but the entry level, Level 1, and attending a workshop are as far as I plan to go with this organization. The training so far has been well put together, straightforward, and informative. At any point, if I had a question, the instructor gave me an answer that was helpful and clear.

I don’t do any specific preparation for my shifts because when I get there, I don’t know what birds are in, what birds may be admitted, or if anything happened overnight. I actually like that about this organization that when I walk in, I don’t know what I’m getting myself into. However, I do know that baby season is coming up, if it’s not already here, which means there will be a peak in birds at Wild Nest which means I know it will be fast-paced, non-stop work.