The following information is provided to help you decide whether or not a volunteer opportunity or a job opportunity with National Audubon Society's Maine Coast Sanctuaries might be right for you. The items below pertain to all islands and opportunities:

• A small group operates at rustic or primitive camps at each field station. With few exceptions, getting away from others is restricted to the 3-hour observation periods in the blinds. You must be able to coexist with different personalities and lifestyles.


• Allergies to ragweed or other grass species can be debilitating. Exotic grasses cover a large portion of the islands and all the camps are set up in these areas. If you have allergies be sure to bring enough medication to last for your scheduled time. Sample any new medication to determine adverse reactions before you go out to the islands.


• Exercise area is limited. There is virtually no place to run or jog that is safe for you or the nesting birds. The islands are nesting habitat first and foremost—not summer camps! Three-hour-long observation stints require sitting in a 3'x3' burlap-covered blind on a rough seat.


• Be prepared to practice your water conservation skills. All potable water must be carried onto the islands. Rainwater (when available) can be used for bathing. Laundry can be washed at the base camp after your stint, or on the island if rainwater supplies permit.


• Terrain is very rugged on Eastern Egg Rock, Matinicus Rock and Seal Island. Persons with weak knees or ankles may not be able to manage hiking over the large granite boulders to get to an observation blind. Boat landings at all sites require stepping onto slippery rocks, seaweed or in the water.


• Communication with the mainland is limited. Contact between the islands and the Audubon base camp is made at least once a day via cell phone. Mail will be delivered to the islands during weekly or biweekly staff changes or supply drops.


• Gull control is a necessary part of the restoration of Maine's seabird colonies. In managed areas, Herring (HEGU) and Great Black-backed Gull (GBBG) nests or eggs are destroyed. Individual HEGUs or GBBGs determined to be problem predators may be shot (as deemed necessary by the Island Supervisor.) Predator control is done under permit from state and federal agencies. You will not be asked to participate in gull control if you find it unsettling; however, it is important not interfere with the process.


• You must provide: Binoculars, sleeping bag, ground pad and tent. Note: A suitable tent is one that is waterproof and designed to resist damage from high winds. Low-end model tents are constructed from hard plastics or vinyl that "crackle" in high winds making it difficult to sleep inside. A rain fly is a must. Strong UV rays will cause some deterioration of the fly fabric, especially if you stay longer than two or three weeks. We recommend a tarp sized to fit over your tent fly to protect it from UV and the uric acid in bird droppings. A two-person tent provides ample room for sleeping and storage of your clothes and some gear. A larger size is not recommended since it may be difficult to find a level spot to site it and it weighs more.

Information on how you can get involved: Volunteer Opportunities Job Opportunities