Volunteer Pelican Patroller

WWT London Wetland Centre will soon be welcoming the arrival of a group of ten Australian Pelicans. This is the only group of this species in the UK and therefore a very exciting and important addition to the centre. The pelicans will be housed in a public walk-through enclosure where visitors can get up close (but not too close) and personal with these incredible birds. The Living Collections Team are looking for volunteers to join team "Pelican Patrol" to help and support with this important element of their care. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of our London Wetland Team and be an ambassador for the conservation of wetlands and the wildlife within them.

Pelican Patrol team members will be responsible for supervising the exhibit when it is open to the general public. You will be helping to educate visitors about our pelicans and their Australian wetland habitats, as well as maintaining the safety of both pelicans and visitors by advising on safety measures in the area. This will include reminding people not to touch the pelicans, keeping to the footpaths, and keeping gates closed etc. 

Main tasks

• Sharing your knowledge of our amazing Australian pelicans with site visitors
•  Following health & safety guidelines to keep both pelicans and humans safe in our area
• Undertaking an induction to gain an deeper understanding and appreciation of WWT, its work, and how we share our messages with the public

No previous experience is required for this role as full training will be provided, and a willingness to learn new skills and develop your knowledge is more important.

However, this role would suit you if you:

• Have great verbal communication skills and are willing to learn more about wildlife.
• Have a passion for nature and conservation and are keen to share that with others.
• Are enthusiastic, reliable, and willing to learn new skills.
• Want to develop your knowledge of the wetland habitats, and ways to engage people with them.
• Are happy and able to work both independently and under the direction of the Living Collections Keeper.
• Are committed to undertaking the relevant training needed for this role. Please note that all Pelican Patrol members will be required to attend an induction, including zoonotic advice and health & safety briefings.

We are WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn new skills or spend time in our wildlife-rich wetlands, there’s a volunteer role for you. Just a few hours spent volunteering can really make a world of difference to our wildlife, and to you.

So, come surround yourself with the wonder of wetlands, and the people who inject their energy and passion into them. Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. The only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT

• Make a real contribution to the conservation and engagement work of WWT
• Work at one of our beautiful and internationally important wetland sites
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded nature lovers who bring energy, passion, and expertise to their role
• Make new friends and become part of a friendly and inclusive community
• Gain volunteering experience and learn & develop new skills
• Get volunteer discounts for WWT shops, café, and membership
• Get free entry to all our UK wetland centres, including for your family
• Receive access to wildlife talks, webinars, and practical information to help you manage your volunteer role & daily life
• Keep informed about what’s happening in our organisation and the positive change you are helping to make happen