Education
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Youth Ornithology Career Orientation
Are you interested in birds and our natural world? Would you like to explore the world of ornithology? How about embarking on an outdoor adventure, in one of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s protected areas, gaining hands-on experience with birds and learning the science behind understanding them?
Young people between the ages of 13 and 16 are invited to apply for an inspiring training program about birds, their role in our natural world, and our efforts to study and protect them and their habitats. The Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory (PEPtBO) is pleased to host the Youth Ornithology Career Orientation (YOCO), consisting of five sessions that will introduce youth to the science of ornithology. Topics covered include bird identification, safe bird handling, banding, surveys, point counts, habitat restoration, and conservation. The programs will also incorporate indigenous teachings about our natural world, emphasizing the diverse ways of understanding and connecting with nature.
The program will run in two sessions in 2026:
Spring Session: May 29 - 31 (Friday, 5 pm - Sunday, 4 pm)
Summer Session: July 20 - 24 (Monday, 10 am - Friday, 4pm)
Each session will accommodate a class size of seven youth interested in studying or working in biology/ecology, habitat management, conservation, and ornithology.
Both sessions take place in Prince Edward County, with participants camping outdoors at a private property at Soup Harbour and spending their days at the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from Soup Harbour, ON. During the sessions, all food, camping equipment, and transportation will be provided. All staff and volunteers have successfully completed a Vulnerable Sector Check.
Costs:
Spring Session: $200/youth
Summer Session: $400/youth
Financial assistance is available on a case-by-case basis.
Deadline:
Spring Session: Applications must be submitted by May 14, 2026.
Summer Session: Applications must be submitted by June 14, 2026.
Any questions or inquiries regarding YOCO please contact:
Ketha Gillespie, Program Coordinator
director.gillespie@peptbo.ca
