Lindsay Wildlife Teen Programs

What’s an OWL?

The Outstanding Wildlife Leader (OWL) program (formerly the Interpretive Guides) is a year-long service-learning leadership experience designed for teens ages 13–18. OWLs are an essential part of the Lindsay Wildlife Education team and will have the opportunity to explore the world of environmental education, learn about California wildlife & conservation, and connect with a community of peers who share their interests. We seek a positive and responsible teen who is ready to connect people with wildlife!

Outstanding Wildlife Leaders:

• Commits to completing a minimum of 100 service hours during the program year.
• Learn to safely handle and interpret for Lindsay’s mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates ambassadors.
• Regularly attends onsite weekly shift and provide husbandry care for Lindsay’s domestic animal ambassadors.
• Support conservation-focused programs & presentations.
• Participate in professional development activities, and much more!

Application Information

Thank you for your interest in our Outstanding Wildlife Leader program! The 2024-2025 program application is now open from now until May 15th, 2024 at 11:59 PM. CLICK HERE to apply for the 2024-2025 OWL Program year.  Please feel free to reach out to our team at [email protected] if you have any questions.

2024-2025 OWL PROGRAM APPLICATION

Annual program fee: $650 (limited scholarship opportunities may be available)

Lindsay Wildlife Experience is an Equal Opportunity institution; we welcome applications from all those qualified and interested. Individuals from groups historically underrepresented in the sciences are encouraged to apply.

General requirements:

• Applicants must be 13 – 18 years old and not yet graduated from high school.
• Applicants must be willing and able to complete a minimum of 100 hours in the program year.
• Applicants must be willing and able to consistently attend a two and a half hour onsite weekly shift.
• Applicants should be willing to participate in educational programs about conservation.
• Applicants should have a genuine interest in environmental education, conservation, and wildlife!
• Applicants must be able to lift 15 pounds confidently.
• Applicants must have adequate mobility to navigate animal enclosures safely.

All onsite program activities are subject to the latest state and county health orders. Our team will adjust the requirements as needed to comply with current health and safety recommendations. It is our goal to maintain the quality of content and program experience offered to each participant.

Have a question? Interested in additional information? Please contact [email protected]

What’s a K.I.T?

The Keeper in Training (KIT) program is the perfect opportunity for OWLs who are especially interested in animal care, research, and training. KIT teens work closely with Lindsay’s Animal Encounters department and experience first-hand what it takes to be an animal keeper. The KIT shift requires a substantial time commitment with a high emphasis on reliability. KITs will be expected to attend an OWL Senior Council and are encouraged to maintain an OWL shift attendance.

Requirements

• KIT applicant must complete at least one year in the OWL program.
• Able to regularly and punctually commit to a 4-hour weekly shift.
• Must demonstrate mature, responsible, and professional behavior at all times
• Capable of independent work, teamwork, and demonstrate sound judgment with minimal supervision
• Have adequate mobility to navigate animal enclosures safely
• Able to lift up to 25 pounds confidently
• Holiday shifts may be required