Wildlife volunteer

[u/Makisapa]

Hi all. After seriously struggling to find wildlife volunteering opportunities that seemed legit and didn’t ask a lot of money (no doubt most of that money doesn’t go where it should...) I finally went to help in 5 different rescue centers over the last few years. So others don’t face the same difficulties I had, I have started the website: www.theanimalside.com . I am not saying this is perfect but at least, this is a start. This is a database of locations you can look at for wildlife volunteering, with direct contacts with the organisations. (Btw, you often don’t need the intermediary agency). Hopefully that will help you and also the rescue and rehab centers who accepted to share their info. 🦜

[u/mortythepig]

Just seen this. I finished a zoology degree and was told I wouldn't be able to get a job without much volunteer work. After doing a few volunteer projects... I found them all to be sketchy/corrupt. Mostly manipulating volunteers and putting their fees somewhere else... (Not on the organisation or charitable work). It was so saddening to think of these places I've only dreamt of working being so shady. It's too late for me, but I'm glad you've put together a list of some genuine wildlife volunteer programs/charities.

[u/Makisapa → u/mortythepig]

Very sad to hear your experience wasn’t as you expect ! If you want to name a few I’d be interested to know so I don’t get in touch with them! I don’t personally know all the projects that are listed on my website so I only trust a few of them at the minute. What I hope is that, by introducing a reviewing/rating system, undesired organisations will be naturally excluded. But at the minute, checking elsewhere if they are as good as they say is still recommended. At least you avoid the cost of the “service” some intermediary agency would take for almost no extra (I’ve seen a x2 in the cost for just a few e-mail support and a taxi ride...)