Workshops and Internships
We offer comprehensive Workshops and Internships in collaboration with BirdsCaribbean, providing immersive learning experiences in the field of ornithology, with a special focus on bird banding. These programs are perfect for individuals seeking hands-on experience—from beginners interested in bird conservation to aspiring or seasoned biologists looking to deepen their expertise in avian research and conservation. Open to international, regional, and local participants, our workshops and internships foster a diverse community of conservationists united by a shared passion for protecting bird species and their habitats.
Bird Banding Internships in Partnership with Birds Caribbean
​
TTBO, in collaboration with our partner Birds Caribbean, offers specialized Bird Banding Internships designed to equip students, biologists, and early-career researchers with the skills and knowledge essential for contributing to avian conservation. These internships, available in 3-month and 6-month durations, provide in-depth, hands-on training in bird banding, research methodologies, and fieldwork techniques.
​
Key Features of the Internship Program:
-
International, Regional, and Local Opportunities: The internship is open to participants worldwide, giving them the chance to work alongside experienced field biologists in Trinidad and Tobago’s rich ecosystems. Interns will encounter a variety of bird species, including migratory and endemic birds, making this program an unparalleled experience in tropical ornithology.
-
Hands-on Bird Banding Training: Interns will gain practical experience in handling birds safely, extracting them from mist nets, and applying uniquely coded bands. They will also learn to take key measurements, assess bird health, and record crucial data that contributes to TTBO’s ongoing research.
-
WRP Age-Classification System: A central component of the internship is training in the Wolfe-Ryder-Pyle (WRP) age-classification system, a sophisticated method for aging birds based on molt and plumage cycles. Interns will learn the three-letter WRP coding system and apply it in the field, adding an advanced skill set to their ornithological training.
-
Certification in Partnership with Birds Caribbean: Through our partnership with Birds Caribbean and the North American Banding Council (NABC), interns will have the opportunity to earn certification in bird banding. Certification is awarded after interns demonstrate proficiency in bird handling, data collection, and banding techniques, including mastery of the WRP system. This certification is recognized within the broader ornithological community, enhancing the intern’s professional credentials.
-
Field Research and Data Collection: Interns will actively contribute to TTBO’s long-term research projects, such as population monitoring, migration studies, and demographic research. This involvement provides participants with the opportunity to contribute to scientific publications and strengthens their academic and professional portfolios.
-
Professional Development: Interns will benefit from mentorship by seasoned ornithologists and conservation experts, helping them refine their field and research skills while expanding their network within the international bird conservation community.
Bird Banding Workshops
​
In addition to our internships, TTBO offers Bird Banding Workshops for individuals who are interested in learning about bird banding and the WRP system but may not have the time to commit to a longer internship. These workshops are an excellent introduction to bird banding for anyone—from amateur bird watchers to students, conservationists, or anyone curious about avian research.
What the Workshops Cover:
-
Introduction to Bird Banding: Participants will receive a comprehensive overview of the bird banding process, including the purpose and importance of banding in bird conservation. They will learn about the tools used in bird banding, how to properly handle and band birds, and how to record important data for research purposes.
-
WRP Age-Classification System: The workshop also provides an introduction to the WRP system, where participants will learn about the fundamentals of molt and plumage cycles. They will be guided through the process of aging birds using the three-letter WRP code, a skill that will help participants understand how bird age and life cycles contribute to their conservation.
-
Field Experience: Workshops are field-based, offering participants a chance to observe and participate in real-time bird banding activities. Participants will practice setting up mist nets, extracting birds safely, applying bands, and collecting data. This hands-on experience is invaluable for anyone interested in gaining practical bird banding skills.
-
Conservation Education: TTBO emphasizes the importance of bird banding within the broader context of avian conservation. Workshop participants will learn about the role bird banding plays in monitoring bird populations, tracking migration patterns, and informing conservation strategies.
-
Group Sessions: To ensure a personalized learning experience, our workshops are conducted in small groups. Participants will receive individual feedback and guidance, ensuring that they leave with a solid understanding of the bird banding process.
-
Networking and Community Building: Our workshops attract a diverse group of individuals passionate about birds and conservation. Participants have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share their experiences, and become part of a growing community dedicated to bird conservation.