The Jamaica Bay Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area is a major stop on the Atlantic Flyway as well as an important nesting area for a variety of waterfowl and shorebirds.
Work will include conduction of field monitoring activities relating to the population, health and behavior of avian species in the Jamaica Bay Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area. Weather parameters such as temperature, wind speed and direction as well as precipitation will be monitored and recorded. Also involves calibrating and maintaining equipment in field and lab sites, entering information into electronic databases and spreadsheets, compiling and analyzing information for use in interim and annual reports. May occasionally collaborate or communicate with other state, federal and private cooperators or researchers working with the park on monitoring programs or research investigations with air, water, wildlife, vegetation, and other resource programs. Will use a variety of vehicles, equipment, and watercraft to conduct these activities. Occasionally may be asked to assist one of the other disciplines within the division of Resource Management.
Final report and presentation summarizing completed work and conclusions as well as submission of original data sheets are required at the end of the internship.
Desired Skill Set
Basic understanding of avian ecology, ability to identify avian species, ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain, basic knowledge of GPS equipment.