Bird Gardens of Naples looks for volunteers to support rescue mission

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — If you are looking for a unique way to give back in Southwest Florida, Bird Gardens of Naples is searching for volunteers to help care for hundreds of rescued exotic birds.

The nonprofit sanctuary, located off Immokalee Road in Naples, focuses on parrot rescue, rehabilitation, education, and conservation. The organization has become a local favorite for its colorful open-air aviaries and hands-on tours, but behind the scenes, the sanctuary relies heavily on volunteers to keep operations running. 

Volunteers like Alec Wendel know how important this volunteer work is. "Recently, we took on a project to create a pond for our ducks and other birds. We spent days building this pond by hand. We do it because without us, these birds would have nowhere else to go, but each one of us loves these animals."

The Bird Gardens of Naples says volunteers help with everything from feeding birds and cleaning aviaries to landscaping and construction projects around the property. Staff members said the sanctuary is especially in need of part-time summer volunteers, as the nonprofit is entirely volunteer- and donation-based. 

Tours at Bird Gardens of Naples are held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Gates open at 10:45 a.m., and the guided tour starts at 11 a.m. Tours usually last about 90 minutes to two hours. All tours, pet adoptions, and drop-offs are free. For Keri Lohrman, this was important: "I wanted this to be a place where anyone could come out no matter what."

The sanctuary is home to more than 250 rescued birds, including macaws, cockatoos, conures, and African greys. Many of the birds are rehomed, while some are rescued. The organization works to provide long-term care and educate the public on the responsibilities that come with owning exotic birds. 

Volunteers do not necessarily need prior bird experience. The volunteers, like George Knight, said many people come simply because they love animals and want to help the community." I came with my wife and was blown away. Now, I'm back here helping out the birds."

People interested in volunteering can learn more through the sanctuary’s official website, The Bird Gardens of Naples.