Notes about your surroundings

Volunteer Opportunities--A 10-week program presented by the Upper Newport Bay Naturalists will train docents to explain how the ecosystem of the bay can be protected. Classes are designed to provide the skills, background and knowledge necessary to conduct tours, perform revegetation projects and coordinate special events at the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve and Regional Park. The sessions begin at 6 p.m. May 1 at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. Reservations: (714) 640-6746.

The Santa Ana Zoo needs volunteers to work several hours each week in its new bird aviary. Aviary monitors assist the public and protect the birds from over-eager visitors. An orientation to the zoo and identification guidebook will be given to each volunteer. Minimum age is 14. Information: Leslie Perovich, (714) 953-8555 or Kent Yamaguchi, (714) 836-4000.

Butterflies and Bunnies--Spring’s new arrivals will be welcomed at a workshop Saturday presented by the Discovery Museum of Orange County. Children will make butterfly nets and go on a safari, and visit with the museum’s rabbits. The workshop is for two age groups: 4 to 6 and 7 to 12. Hours are 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the museum, 3101 W. Harvard St., Santa Ana. Cost is $5 for museum members and $7 for nonmembers. Reservations are recommended. (714) 540-0404.

Job Hunters--�Careers With Animals,� offered by Orange Coast College’s Re-Entry Center, will focus on work in a zoo setting. The free workshop is from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesday in the center, in Room 106 of the Counseling and Admissions building, 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa. Information: (714) 432-5162.