Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society  

My  6 week internship was definitely an experience I will never forget! To some it up, as everyone has said before me, is going to be difficult at best. It consisted of so many tests, on all levels of the word! It tested my emotional stability, physical endurance, attentiveness, patience, and ability to function with very little sleep, too name a few. There were many different areas of ecology, biology, and botany covered, as well as some history and heritage of the island itself. That was definitely an added bonus to everything I experienced.

 Life at M.A.R.S, I must emphasize has strict and intense cleaning responsibilities, and that you are on call 24 hours a day when you are residing at M.A.R.S. This is an extremely important thing to take into consideration before you apply. With over 70 different animal cases in my stay alone, the hours and consistent record keeping, laundry, dishes, cages, and garbage at times seemed to never end. This internship is not for the weak of heart or stomach!

 The work of helping to try and save injured, orphaned, or even some times kidnapped birds and mammals is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. It can however, take its toll. Yet, when I look back, the tough and agonizing labor that came with it seems trivial and frivolous for the exchange of miraculous moments and the sense of pure altruism I felt. There is nothing that could ever compare to a fawn trying to nurse from your neck- as you are teaching him to feed from a baby bottle, or burping a seal pup.

  As I mentioned however, the responsibilities, as an intern was too “Try” and save the lives of these animals, and in many cases, we were not successful. Death was a very big reality while completing my stay at M.A.R.S. Many animals could not be saved or were too severely injured to be successfully rehabilitated, thus euthanasia is performed when necessary.

 Life at Mountainaire is about communication, a lot is expected of you and to be sensitive to constructive criticism would be a disadvantage to say the least. It is also very important to be able to work as a team and individually, taking initiative in to your own hands helps those around you as well as your patience. If you need approval or too have people instruct your exertions constantly, this internship is not for you!

 Working with MARS, I took part in many fundraising and volunteer programs outside of the centre. Job shadowing at veterinarian clinics (in my case, an amazing holistic clinic called The Tree of Life), partaking in local events and festivals, with our focus on public awareness and education of Bald Eagles, their nests on the island, and so-too-speak advertising of the centers work.

 Lastly, I want to say, again, that this was one of the best experiences of my life! I would like to thank the volunteers for their company and help each day. As well as Maj and Keith for allowing me the opportunity.