Volunteer with us
Join us in this sought-after Garden Route destination, where your hands-on work caring for injured birds of prey makes a real impact. Get up close with wildlife rehabilitation, assist with daily centre operations, and help educate the community, all while enjoying Plettenberg Bay’s stunning landscapes and diverse indigenous wildlife.
The volunteer experience
Join us on the stunning Garden Route, a sought-after holiday and tourism destination, and become part of a passionate team caring for injured birds of prey. For travellers passionate about wildlife conservation and environmental education, our two-week volunteer experience offers the chance to make a real difference while gaining behind-the-scenes insight into wildlife rehabilitation. Volunteers work directly with raptors, learning about their care and rehabilitation, and also take part in community education programmes. This immersive experience allows you to deepen your understanding of conservation while contributing meaningfully to the protection of our local wildlife.
Volunteer internship
Our three-month internship is designed for students and aspiring wildlife professionals with a particular interest in birds of prey. Interns gain hands-on experience in rehabilitation and care, learning from experienced staff while contributing to the day-to-day operations of the centre. On completion, interns receive a certificate and a letter of recommendation, along with opportunities for paid work experience. This internship is a stepping stone for anyone looking to pursue a career in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
JOIN OUR EDUCATION & ANIMAL CARE TEAM
Volunteers in our education and animal care team help maintain a welcoming environment for both birds and visitors. You’ll assist with feeding and caring for our resident raptors, cleaning enclosures, and supporting light gardening and general upkeep. At the same time, you’ll engage with visitors, lead tours, support community education programmes, and help with events and fundraisers. This is a rewarding, hands-on way to support raptor conservation while interacting with both wildlife and people.
JOIN OUR RESCUE & FIRST AID TEAM
Volunteers in our rescue and first aid team play a vital role in helping injured or sick birds of prey. After completing our Basic Rescue and First Aid Course, you’ll assist with safely catching, restraining, and transporting raptors from homes or businesses to the centre or veterinary clinics. You’ll also support the rehabilitation process and help maintain treatment areas. This hands-on role allows you to make a real impact on the lives of the birds and their conservation.
JOIN OUR MAINTENANCE CREW
Our maintenance volunteers help ensure the centre runs smoothly and that our birds have safe, enriching environments. You’ll assist with constructing and maintaining enclosures, repairing structures, building enrichment features, and general upkeep around the centre. This practical, hands-on work provides a tangible way to contribute to the wellbeing of our birds and the success of our conservation efforts.
Volunteering at Raptor Rescue Plettenberg Bay was an unforgettable experience! From the moment I arrived, I felt part of the team. I learned so much about caring for injured raptors, cleaning enclosures, and even assisting with rescues. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, and I loved being able to engage with visitors and teach them about these amazing birds.
The hands-on experience gave me insight into wildlife rehabilitation that I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else. Plus, living in such a beautiful part of South Africa while contributing to conservation made the experience even more special. I left feeling inspired, connected, and proud to have helped make a difference!
– Emily R – UK
Scheduled Annual Closure dates
To ensure the highest standard of care for our birds and the wellbeing of our team, Raptor Rescue Plettenberg Bay observes scheduled annual closure periods.
THE CENTRE WILL BE CLOSED TO VISITORS ON THE FOLLOWING DATES:
23 February – 2 March
(Reopens Tuesday, 3 March)
26 May – 1 June
(Reopens Tuesday, 2 June)
17 August – 31 August
(Reopens Tuesday, 1 September)
23 November – 30 November
(Reopens Tuesday, 1 December)
During these periods, essential animal care, rehabilitation and maintenance continue behind the scenes, ensuring the centre operates responsibly and sustainably all year round.
Marketing & media
We welcome volunteers with skills in photography, filmmaking, web design, social media, IT, or fundraising to help share the story of Raptor Rescue Plettenberg Bay. By contributing your expertise, you’ll raise awareness about our birds and conservation work, support educational initiatives, and help grow our impact. This is a meaningful way for skilled volunteers to combine their talents with a passion for wildlife conservation.