Wildlife Caretaker Volunteer Program
Make a real difference for Amazonian wildlife
Our Wildlife Caretaker Volunteer Program is a vital
part of RAREC’s daily work and long-term mission. As a volunteer, you will play
an important role in the care and rehabilitation of rescued wild animals,
helping us give them the best possible chance to recover and thrive.
We are looking for people with a genuine love for
animals and a willingness to learn. No previous studies or professional
experience are required — what matters most is patience, responsibility,
commitment, and strong observation skills. At the same time, professionals are
also very welcome to join us, share their knowledge, and contribute their
passion and expertise to the project.
The time volunteers spend feeding, observing, and
caring for the animals is essential to the success of our work. Wildlife
caretakers are often the first to notice changes in an animal’s physical
condition, behavior, or emotional wellbeing, making them a key part of the
rehabilitation process.
The Project
RAREC is located in the Peruvian Amazon, a region of
extraordinary biodiversity but also one deeply affected by illegal wildlife
trafficking, hunting, and the irresponsible exploitation of natural resources.
All the animals that arrive at our center have been
rescued from situations such as illegal trade, captivity, or hunting. Many are
orphaned and very young — sometimes babies that require bottle feeding,
constant attention, and a great deal of patience and care. Others arrive
frightened, malnourished, or traumatized.
What You’ll Do as a Volunteer
As a Wildlife Caretaker Volunteer, your activities may
include:
- Supporting
animal rescue and rehabilitation processes
- Cleaning enclosures and work
areas
- Preparing and distributing food
- Monitoring
animals’ growth, health, and behavior to detect any concerns
- Assisting with enrichment
activities
- Observing
assigned animals and helping improve their environment
- Collecting
natural food for rescued animals, such as fruits and insects
- Assisting
with the feeding of juvenile animals
- Helping
with maintenance of the center
- Carrying
out minor repairs to enclosures when needed
- Making
enrichment items for enclosures (e.g. hammocks and ladders)
- Attending
conservation talks and educational sessions provided by the different
programs
- Supporting
environmental education, science activities, or computer skills classes
for nearby communities
- Joining
nature walks to learn about local birds, reptiles, amphibians, and
invertebrates
What We Look For
Because we work with vulnerable wild animals, we place
great importance on responsibility, dedication, and attention to detail. We are
looking for volunteers who are patient, observant, open-minded, and genuinely
passionate about animal welfare.
We also welcome people who want to bring ideas,
creativity, and fresh perspectives. Any practical suggestions that can improve
the project are always appreciated. Our goal is to build an international team
of volunteers who leave a positive mark on RAREC and contribute to its growth.
What You Can Expect
Volunteers can expect a peaceful and welcoming
environment, comfortable facilities, and the opportunity to be part of a
passionate and close-knit team.
RAREC has been growing steadily for the past 14 years,
bringing together people who truly care about wildlife conservation and
rehabilitation. We are proud to have a team made up of experienced caretakers,
biologists, and veterinarians who live on site and are available to guide and
support volunteers throughout their stay.
Most of the team at RAREC speaks English, and some
staff members also speak Spanish. Volunteers are supported by our on-site team
of experienced caretakers, biologists, and veterinarians, who live at the
center and help guide daily activities throughout the stay. We want your
experience here to be meaningful, educational, and inspiring — a chance not
only to help wildlife, but also to learn, grow, and become part of a community
that shares your passion.
Important Information
- Upon
arrival, all volunteers participate in a short orientation period to
become familiar with the center, the animals, and daily routines. During
their first week, volunteers actively participate in daily activities and
animal care of all animals, with the exception of very young babies, while
working under staff supervision. It is mandatory to use masks and gloves
during their first 7 days at the center. This gradual introduction helps
protect animal welfare while allowing volunteers to gain experience and
become familiar with the center’s procedures.
- As
a rescue and rehabilitation center, the species present at RAREC change
depending on current rescue cases. This means that the animals at the
center during your stay may vary, and we cannot guarantee the presence of
any specific species.
