Aviculturist

The Aviculturist supports the mission of the International Crane Foundation (ICF) by providing the highest standards of avian husbandry and supporting the health and well-being of the captive flock. The incumbent is responsible for the daily care of the birds, the maintenance of enclosures, in addition, assisting with the breeding and reintroduction programs. This position must be able to work as an integral team member and communicate effectively with coworkers, colleagues, volunteers, and guests.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform daily husbandry tasks, such as cleaning of crane pens, provision of clean water, and fresh food according to established protocols and maintain accurate and timely records for captive flock in database. Observes cranes behaviors and habitat to ensure well-being and safety.

• Assist Crane Conservation Department with daily management of flock to meet institutional collection management and annual breeding goals.

• Participate in captive propagation programs through observations of crane breeding behavior, practicing artificial insemination, regulating diet, implementing various egg incubation techniques, pair socializations, rearing chicks, and behavioral enrichment.

• Participate in Whooping crane reintroduction efforts including rearing of chicks on and off-site while working in a costume; assists with field-based rearing and release efforts.

• Assist with coordination of seasonal maintenance activities related to flock management and welfare including vegetation management, annual disinfection of crane holding pens, repairs to crane enclosures, snow removal, camera installation, and pen rotations.

Additional Duties:

• Facilitates communication related to CCD activities through updates of various platforms (i.e. ZIMS, Teams, email), participation in ICF staff meetings, CCD morning and weekly department meetings, and participation in planning sessions.

• Attends and participates in ICF staff meetings, CCD meetings, and provides oral and written reports when needed.

• Collaborates with Department staff on management actions to improve flock welfare, advance breeding, and program goals, and improve staff efficiency.

• Assume responsibility for knowing, being trained, and following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed and operation of equipment.

• Assists in training apprentices, other fellows, scientists, trainees, and volunteers in learning the techniques involved in breeding, exhibiting, and caring for the captive flock.

• Work closely with Conservation Medicine Department to provide high quality health care to the flock including treatment of sick or injured birds as directed by veterinary staff. •

Perform other tasks as assigned.