Research and Training

BCA is a world-leader in wildlife rehabilitation by providing research, education and training services for professionals and community organizations. We do this through training for government agencies, veterinarians and allied professionals, other rehabilitators, and the wider public. Our workshops include a one-day intensive Frontline Emergency Training, in which first-responders learn safe and humane bird-handling skills for managing wildlife emergencies.

We also work closely with universities and tertiary training institutions, providing internships for students in relevant fields, including veterinary science, veterinary nursing, and captive wild animal management. A member of Wildlife Rehabilitators Network of New Zealand (WReNNZ) we collaborate with wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers throughout the country and internationally. Our research into the effects of light and plastic pollution on seabirds has been published in internationally acclaimed scientific journals, whilst our research into avian malaria and botulism is currently used by councils and other agencies around Aotearoa.

Research Opportunities

BirdCare Aotearoa can offer a wide range of research opportunities. If you require research as part of your studies or report, we at BirdCare Aotearoa can provide a diverse array of avian research topics.

Workshops

Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page, and subscribe to our newsletter for news about upcoming training.

Upcoming events

One-day Course – Front-line Emergency Training

Learn to respond safely and humanely to wildlife emergencies, and develop skills to successfully care for wildlife in need.

Dates:

9th May 2025 – In-person version – 9.30am-4.30pm at 74 Avonleigh Road, Green Bay, Auckland – $175pp (includes tour)

16th May 2025 – On-line version live via Zoom – 9.30am-2.30pm – $125pp

YOU WILL LEARN…

Step-by-step processes for evaluating the situation, capture, handling, transport and first aid for sick, injured or abandoned/orphaned wild birds, including:

• how to cope with orphaned, injured, poisoned, or sick birds you encounter

• how to decide when to rescue a bird

• skills and tips for rapid evaluation of situations in the field

• the humane approach to capture, housing and transport

• skills and tips for the safe handling of any bird species

• essential first aid instructions to save the life of a bird

• what are survivable injuries, and when is euthanasia the best treatment

• a review of the ‘chain of evidence’ requirements in a suspected malicious incident

• how to ensure your and others’ safety, and recognise the stressors that impact front-line responders