Volunteering with the MBO

Our bird banding activities take place in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, near the Morgan Arboretum, during both the spring migration (April 18th to June 1st) and the fall migration (August 1st to November 6th). We operate from sunrise for 6 hours each day.

We are seeking volunteers who can commit long-term to the observatory, with an expectation of approximately one shift per week during the migration periods for two years. No prior experience in ornithology or bird banding is required — we provide comprehensive training to all volunteers.

If you’re passionate about bird conservation and want to get hands-on experience, we’d love to have you join our team!

Volunteering Positions

Often the first role for new volunteers, the Assistant Extractor position is crucial. Many enjoy this role long-term as it offers learning opportunities and time outdoors.

Duties:

  • Assist extractors by providing empty bags, holding bird bags, raising/lowering nets, and transporting items between nets and the banding station.
  • Ensure accuracy by tracking which bags hold birds from which nets.

Requirements:

  • Willingness to help as directed by the bander-in-charge and extractors.
  • Proactive attitude to identify tasks, take initiative, and work independently.

The scribe supports the bander by accurately recording data, allowing the bander to focus on handling and identifying birds.

Duties:

  • Record data in logbooks as directed by the bander.
  • Look up references for bird identification.
  • Verify accuracy by asking questions if information seems unclear or inconsistent.

Requirements:

  • Attention to detail to maintain accurate records.
  • Neat handwriting to ensure data is legible.
  • Willingness to ask questions when unsure—don’t guess!

This role is for volunteers who have gained experience as a net assistant and scribe and have begun handling birds under supervision. Extractors in training learn the critical skill of bird extraction with guidance from lead extractors or the bander in charge.

Duties:

  • Assist with bird extraction under supervision, focusing on safe and efficient techniques.
  • Learn to identify priority birds and assess their condition during and after extraction.
  • Support net assistants by helping with bagging and transportation of birds.

Requirements:

  • Patience and a gentle touch, as most birds at MBO are very small.
  • Willingness to learn and ask for help when needed.
  • Attention to detail to ensure bird safety and accurate data collection.

Lead extractors are experienced volunteers who can safely extract birds independently and supervise extractors in training. This role is vital, as trainees may only extract birds in the presence of a lead extractor or the bander in charge.

Duties:

  • Extract birds independently while ensuring their safety and well-being.
  • Supervise and guide extractors in training, offering support and feedback.
  • Prioritize bird extractions based on condition and situation.
  • Maintain a safe and efficient workflow by assisting with logistics and coordinating with the bander in charge.

Requirements:

  • High level of competence in bird extraction and handling.
  • Strong communication skills to effectively train and support others.
  • Leadership qualities, including patience, attention to detail, and the ability to manage challenging situations calmly.

The Census Observer conducts a one-hour morning census, walking a designated loop to inventory all bird species present. This role is crucial for collecting consistent data on bird diversity and abundance.

Duties:

  • Perform the morning census, accurately recording all bird species observed along the route.

Requirements:

  • Advanced bird identification skills, recognizing over 75% of species by sight and sound (Class 1 observer).
  • Strong knowledge of bird species, as this role requires maintaining strict adherence to our protocols.

Site maintenance is vital for keeping the MBO’s standardized protocols consistent year after year. Ensuring the habitat remains as similar as possible to its original state (since 2004) is crucial for the integrity of our long-term research.

Duties:

  • Mow net lanes to ensure they remain clear and functional.
  • Trim branches and clear vegetation to prevent interference with nets.
  • Assist with general habitat maintenance, including clearing trees and shrubs during and between migration periods.

Requirements:

  • Willingness to engage in physical tasks outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Attention to detail, helping maintain consistency in the site’s habitat.
  • Reliability, as this role is critical to the continuation of our research.

The McGill Bird Observatory (MBO) offers seasonal internships for those looking to gain hands-on experience at a migration monitoring station. Interns will develop essential skills in bird identification, mist net extraction, safe handling, banding, and data collection, as well as the daily operations of running a banding station.

Under the guidance of experienced banders, interns will learn how to apply proper handling techniques, record morphometric measurements, and age birds using WRP molt codes. They will also assist with net setup and takedown, volunteer coordination, and station maintenance, gaining a well-rounded understanding of migration research.

The internship requires a minimum commitment of 150 hours (ideally 210 hours). It is a non-salaried position. Interns should be prepared for early mornings (starting 30 minutes before sunrise), six-hour shifts, and moderate physical activity. No prior banding experience is required.

Availability is limited each season—apply early!

Spring: April 18 – June 5 (Apply by February 15)

Fall: August 1 – November 6 (Apply by June 1)

To apply, send a cover letter, CV, transcript, and one reference to: mbo@migrationresearch.org

Important Information

Our bird banding site is located in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue near the Morgan Arboretum. Public transportation is not available during early morning hours, so you will need a car or a bike to arrive on time. We have an online schedule to allow you to select the mornings that work best for you.

In addition to our migration-related roles, we also offer more flexible opportunities such as site maintenance, social media management, educational content creation, and other tasks that may suit your availability.

Please note that due to the high volume of interest, we will contact you only if a position that matches your interests becomes available.

Finally, we ask that only one form per person is submitted.

Open Positions

All positions are currently filled.

Check back with us in the future for new opportunities!