Notes about your surroundings Docent Opportunity--The Sea...

Notes about your surroundings Docent Opportunity--The Sea & Sage Audubon Society is looking for a few good naturalists to give weekday tours of the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine.

Tour guides will lead groups of elementary school children along marked trails that wind through the freshwater ponds of the wildlife sanctuary. These volunteer naturalists will point out birds, plants and animals along the tour.

For many children, the tour may be their first trek into a wilderness area. Naturalists are there to locate and identify species, as well as answer questions.

Docents do not need a strong zoological or natural sciences background to excel. Many of the species that make the sanctuary their home are commonly recognized. Birds spotted at the wetlands include great blue herons, egrets and red-tailed hawks. The more complicated knowledge of the wildlife area will be taught.

Volunteers must attend a 10-session training program that meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. The classes will cover topics including outdoor teaching techniques and proper use of microscopes and binoculars. Other topics include pond species, bird biology and public speaking.

Additional experience will be gained by observing and assisting tours. Volunteers should share a love of the natural world combined with enthusiasm and energy. Enjoying working with children is a plus. Additionally, all volunteers must be able to lead or assist with two tours each month from October through May.

There is a $15 fee that covers the cost of training materials. Registration deadline is Aug. 30. For more information on this volunteer opportunity, contact the Audubon House at (714) 262-7963.

To reach the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary and Sea & Sage’s Audubon House, take the San Diego Freeway to the Jamboree Road exit, head south. Turn left at Michelson Drive, and then make a right at the second signal onto Irvine Ranch Water District property. Follow the paved road and “Duck Club “ signs to the Audubon House.