Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders

What's Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders? 

The Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders (OWLs) is a program for youth ages 13 to 15 with a passion for animals and conservation. Participants develop skills by volunteering at the zoo, doing hands-on conservation work in the Portland metro area and learning about the zoo and conservation fields. 

Who can be a Wildlife Leader? 

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders is for any interested teen from the Portland Metro Area between the ages of 13 and 15 on April 12, 2026. Since space is limited, participants will be selected through an application and interview process. There are no fees or background requirements to participate in this program. We’re looking for young people of all kinds who are excited to learn about wildlife, conservation and zoo careers. You don't need to know about these topics in advance.

When does the program begin? 

The summer season lasts for ten weeks, beginning June 14. If selected, each participant and an adult must attend the required orientation on March 29, and trainings on April 12 and May 17. Additional and optional training activities are available over Memorial Day weekend.

Wildlife Leaders are expected to volunteer at least once a week for eight of the ten weeks. Shifts are on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Each shift is six hours long with a lunch break. Participants who meet their hour requirements will be invited to return in the fall, spring and following summer for additional opportunities.

What do Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders do? 

Wildlife Leaders contribute in a variety of ways, primarily leading activities for guests around the zoo. They also participate in activities to learn about zoos, conservation and animal care. Wildlife Leaders are expected to use their growing knowledge to support the zoo’s mission to connect our community to wildlife to create a better future for all.

How does someone become an Oregon Wildlife Leader?

The program has an annual application and interview process, during which we select and onboard approximately 30 teens.

Applications for 2026 have closed. Check back here again to apply for the summer 2027 season. 

For questions or inquiries about Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders, please email [email protected]. 

Looking for summer camps, day camps, and other seasonal educational programs? 

The Oregon Zoo partners with the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to offer our wildlife wonderland as a venue for seasonal camp programs. Check out OMSI camps for a complete listing and sign-up information.