Raptor Rehabilitator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly environmentally-conscious world, the spotlight on raptor rehabilitators has never been brighter.

As wildlife conservation efforts continue to rise, the demand for skilled professionals who can rescue, rehabilitate, and reintroduce these majestic birds back into the wild grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a raptor rehabilitator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the fascinating field of raptor rehabilitation,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable raptor rehabilitator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or wildlife conservation career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Raptor Rehabilitator Duties and Responsibilities

Raptor Rehabilitators are responsible for the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured, sick, and orphaned birds of prey.

They play a vital role in wildlife conservation and education.

The duties and responsibilities of a Raptor Rehabilitator include:

• Rescue injured or sick raptors and transport them to a rehabilitation center
• Assess the health condition of the bird and provide emergency care
• Coordinate with veterinarians to develop and implement treatment plans
• Monitor and record the progress of the raptor’s recovery
• Feed and care for the birds, ensuring their physical needs are met
• Implement conditioning programs to prepare raptors for release
• Evaluate the bird’s ability to survive in the wild before releasing
• Participate in research and conservation initiatives related to birds of prey
• Educate the public about raptors and their role in the ecosystem
• Maintain the cleanliness and safety of the raptor facility
• Comply with all local and national wildlife laws and regulations

 

Raptor Rehabilitator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Raptor Rehabilitator to join our wildlife conservation team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the care and rehabilitation of injured, sick, or orphaned birds of prey.

You should have knowledge of raptor behavior, dietary needs, and handling procedures.

Our ideal candidate has previous experience with raptor rehabilitation and a deep passion for wildlife conservation.

 

Responsibilities

• Rescue and transport injured or sick raptors to our facility.
• Perform medical procedures such as administering medication, wound care, and physical therapy.
• Monitor raptors’ health and behavior daily.
• Prepare specialized diets and feed raptors as per their dietary needs.
• Maintain clean and appropriate enclosures for each bird.
• Assist with conditioning raptors for release back into the wild.
• Educate the public about raptors and our conservation efforts.
• Collaborate with other rehabilitators, volunteers, and staff members for the wellbeing of the raptors.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in wildlife rehabilitation, preferably with raptors.
• Knowledge of raptor species, their behavior, and dietary needs.
• Ability to handle raptors safely and calmly.
• Physical fitness to carry out field rescues and lift heavy objects.
• Capable of performing basic veterinary procedures.
• Excellent observational and record-keeping skills.
• Degree in Wildlife Management, Zoology, Veterinary Medicine, or a related field is preferable.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development in wildlife conservation
• Working closely with wildlife and contributing to conservation efforts

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Raptor Rehabilitator
• Work Environment: Primarily outdoors in a wildlife rehabilitation setting. The role involves physical labor and exposure to adverse weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rehabilitation Center Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience with wildlife, particularly raptors, to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Raptor Rehabilitator Do?

Raptor Rehabilitators work primarily within wildlife conservation organizations, bird sanctuaries, or as part of a veterinary team.

They can also be self-employed, working from their own property and facilities.

Their role is to rescue and provide care for injured, sick, or orphaned raptors, which include eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls.

They perform field rescues, administer medical treatment, and ensure the raptors are well-nourished and comfortable during their recovery.

Raptor Rehabilitators work closely with veterinarians to diagnose and treat illnesses or injuries.

They may need to perform emergency first aid, administer medications, or assist in surgeries.

After the treatment, these professionals carry out rehabilitation programs designed to help the birds regain their strength and natural behaviors.

This may include flight training and hunting practice, with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into their natural habitats.

Educating the public about raptors and the importance of their conservation is another vital aspect of a Raptor Rehabilitator’s job.

They may organize and participate in workshops, presentations, and community events to raise awareness and promote the protection of these magnificent birds.

In some instances, when a raptor is deemed unfit to return to the wild due to the severity of its injuries, Raptor Rehabilitators provide them lifelong care in captivity, ensuring they have a comfortable and safe environment to live in.

 

Raptor Rehabilitator Qualifications and Skills

A Raptor Rehabilitator should have a unique combination of skills and qualifications, such as:

• A deep understanding of raptor biology and behavior to effectively care for and treat these specific species.
• Veterinary skills for diagnosing and treating injuries and illnesses in raptors, including wound care, fracture setting, and administering medications.
• Wildlife handling and restraint skills to safely handle raptors during examinations and treatments without causing additional stress or injury.
• Physical fitness and endurance as raptor rehabilitation can be physically demanding, often involving lifting heavy animals and equipment, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Communication skills to educate the public about raptors, discuss cases with other professionals, and report findings to wildlife agencies.
• Strong observational skills to monitor raptors’ health, behavior, and response to treatment.
• Patience and empathy to work with often stressed and injured animals, understanding their behavior and needs.
• Problem-solving skills to assess the health of raptors, devise appropriate treatment plans, and handle unexpected situations that may arise.

 

Raptor Rehabilitator Experience Requirements

Raptor rehabilitators often require significant knowledge and experience in handling, rehabilitating, and releasing birds of prey.

They typically gain this through relevant education such as a degree in zoology, wildlife conservation, or related fields.

Entry-level raptor rehabilitators may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or volunteer work at a wildlife rehabilitation center or zoo.

They are expected to have basic knowledge and experience in caring for injured, sick, or orphaned raptors, understanding their dietary and habitat requirements, and recognizing symptoms of common illnesses or injuries.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have typically honed their skills in raptor rehabilitation techniques, including wound care, physical therapy, and behavioral training.

They often have experience in administering medication, conducting health assessments, and planning releases.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in raptor rehabilitation are usually well-versed in emergency and critical care procedures for raptors.

They are often capable of conducting educational programs and workshops about raptors, and are considered for roles in leadership or management within wildlife rehabilitation centers.

They may also have experience in obtaining and maintaining permits and licenses for raptor rehabilitation and release.

 

Raptor Rehabilitator Education and Training Requirements

A Raptor Rehabilitator usually holds a bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, animal science, or a related field.

This education gives them a foundational understanding of animal anatomy, behavior, and health.

Practical experience is an essential part of becoming a Raptor Rehabilitator.

Many professionals start their careers by volunteering at wildlife rehabilitation centers, bird sanctuaries, or zoos.

To work with raptors, individuals often need to obtain a license or permit.

The requirements for these licenses vary by state, but generally require a specified amount of hands-on experience with birds of prey, successful completion of an examination, and proof of adequate facilities to house and care for the birds.

Additionally, certifications through professional organizations, such as the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council or the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association, may be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge and adherence to best practices in wildlife rehabilitation.

Continued education is crucial in this field, as rehabilitators must stay updated on new medical techniques, laws, and environmental threats to raptors.

Therefore, attending seminars, workshops, or conferences related to wildlife conservation and rehabilitation is highly recommended.

 

Raptor Rehabilitator Salary Expectations

A Raptor Rehabilitator can expect to earn an average salary of $31,800 (USD) per year.

Actual earnings may differ based on experience, location, and the size of the organization they work for.

 

Raptor Rehabilitator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Raptor Rehabilitator need?

Raptor Rehabilitators need a variety of skills, including knowledge of avian anatomy, physiology, and behavior, as well as medical care and rehabilitation methods for birds of prey.

They should also possess physical conditioning to handle large birds, meticulous observation skills to monitor progress, and patience to provide long-term care.

Good communication and teaching skills are also important to educate the public about raptor conservation.

 

Do Raptor Rehabilitators need a degree?

A degree in biology, zoology, animal science, or a related field can be beneficial, but it’s not always required.

Raptor Rehabilitators generally need a certain amount of hands-on experience through volunteering or internships at wildlife rehabilitation centers.

They must also acquire permits from local and national wildlife agencies to handle and care for these birds.

 

What should you look for in a Raptor Rehabilitator resume?

Look for relevant experience working with wildlife, particularly raptors.

This can include volunteer work, internships, or past employment at wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoos, or veterinary clinics.

A Raptor Rehabilitator should also have an understanding of local and national wildlife laws and regulations.

Certifications in wildlife rehabilitation or related fields are a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Raptor Rehabilitator?

A good Raptor Rehabilitator should be passionate about wildlife conservation and willing to devote long hours to patient care.

They need to be patient and resilient, as recovery for these birds can be a long and uncertain process.

They should be observant, attentive to detail, and able to make sound judgments about a bird’s health and progress.

In addition, they should be good communicators and educators who can advocate for these birds to the public.

 

Is it difficult to hire Raptor Rehabilitators?

Hiring Raptor Rehabilitators can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the work.

The pool of qualified candidates may be smaller than other fields.

It is essential to look for individuals who not only have the necessary skills and experience, but also the commitment and passion for working with raptors.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the reality of what it means to be a raptor rehabilitator.

And guess what?

It’s not just about working with birds.

It’s about shaping a healthier future for our wildlife, one raptor at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive raptor rehabilitator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to spread your wings.

But why stop there?

Fly further with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume to soar above the rest.

Remember:

Every rehabilitated raptor is a step towards a more balanced ecosystem.

Let’s heal that future. Together.

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