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Docent Volunteer

Do you love animals?  Do you enjoy working with people? Would you like to make a difference in the future of our planet’s wildlife and habitats? Are you looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity and an amazing community? Consider becoming a docent at the Los Angeles Zoo!

The L.A. Zoo Docent Volunteer Class is Back!

Take a walk on the wild side! Become a docent volunteer at the L.A. Zoo. Our docent class offers in-depth zoology, ecology, and conservation training, focusing on the animals and plants at the Zoo.

  • The docent training program is a 19-week long course
  • Students meet at the Zoo one day a week to learn about wildlife through classroom lectures and visits to habitats on-grounds. 
  • If you love to learn, love animals, and love to share what you know with others, this is the volunteer program for you!

What is a Docent

Docents are volunteer teachers and zoo guides who engage visitors and share knowledge of the Zoo and the natural world. They are expressive voices for the endangered animals and rare plants that the Los Angeles Zoo and many zoos around the world strive to protect and preserve.  Docents are ambassadors for the L.A. Zoo, enlightening the public on conservation, preservation, and research efforts.

At the end of the training course, docents have an in-depth understanding of the flora and fauna at the Zoo, as well as an excellent knowledge of species worldwide. Docents can connect with our guests using skills developed during the training course, including interpreting exhibits, leading tours, using biofacts, facilitating educational activities, and assisting with programs and special events. The duties that docents participate in vary widely. There is a volunteer opportunity for everyone! 

More importantly, docents make a difference in the world!

For more information, please send an email to docents@lazoo.org

Qualifications

Applicants must enjoy working with people of all ages. This program does not work directly with animals but engages the public to care about wildlife and conservation. Docents are volunteer teachers and Zoo guides, 15 years of age or older, who give at least 100 hours per year of volunteer service. (60 hours per year for high school students)

Special Requirements

  • Docents must maintain a membership in the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association.
  • Docents commit to a minimum of 2 years of service.
  • An annual negative tuberculosis test is required.
  • Proof of complete COVID 19 vaccination is required.
  • Docents must successfully complete a fingerprint background check.
  • Docents must attend an annual update session and pass an annual test with a minimum score of 90%.

Apply Now!