Zoo Keeper

What is a zoo keeper?

A zoo keeper is someone who takes care of animals in a zoo. They provide food, water, and medical care to the animals, as well as create and maintain their habitats.

What does a zoo keeper do?

Usually, a zoo keeper does the following:

• Feeds and provides water to the animals
• Cleans and maintains the animal enclosures
• Monitors the health and behavior of the animals
• Assists in veterinary procedures and administering medications
• Creates and implements enrichment activities for the animals
• Educates visitors about the animals and conservation efforts

What does the day-to-day life of a zoo keeper look like?

A zoo keeper usually works in shifts, which can include early mornings, weekends, and holidays. They spend their day caring for the animals in their designated sections of the zoo. This includes feeding the animals, cleaning their enclosures, monitoring their behavior, and carrying out any necessary medical procedures.

Where does a zoo keeper work?

Zoo keepers work in zoos and wildlife parks. These can range from small, local zoos to large, well-known zoos. They are located throughout the United Kingdom, with a variety of animals from various habitats.

What tools/software/hardware does a zoo keeper use?

A zoo keeper uses a variety of tools and equipment including:

• Feeding and cleaning tools
• Communication devices (walkie-talkies, radios)
• Safety equipment (gloves, boots)
• Basic medical supplies (first aid kits)

What do I need to become a zoo keeper?

There are a number of ways you can become a zoo keeper, including:

• Qualifications: Some zoos require a qualification in animal care, such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management.
• Higher education: You can study zoology or a related field at university to gain a deeper understanding of animal care and behavior.
• Experience: Volunteering or working at animal shelters, farms, or wildlife centers can provide valuable hands-on experience.
• Apprenticeships: Some zoos offer apprenticeships in zoo keeping, allowing you to learn on the job while gaining qualifications.

What career paths are available?

There are a number of career paths available to you as a zoo keeper, including:

• Senior Zoo Keeper: With experience and additional qualifications, you can progress to a senior role, overseeing a department or specific animal species.
• Zoo Curator: As a curator, you would be responsible for managing the overall operations of the zoo, including animal collections, exhibits, and conservation programs. To start in this role, you would typically need several years of experience as a zoo keeper and a relevant degree.
• Wildlife Conservationist: This career path focuses on studying and protecting endangered species and their habitats. You can start by gaining experience as a zoo keeper and then pursue higher education in conservation-related fields.

What jobs are similar to a zoo keeper? (Include those with transferable skills that a zoo keeper usually has)

• Animal Caretaker: Caring for animals in other settings such as farms, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or animal shelters.
• Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist: Focusing on rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned wild animals.
• Park Ranger: Responsible for managing and protecting wildlife in national parks and nature reserves.

What made you want to become a zoo keeper?

How did you get your first zoo keeper job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a zoo keeper?

Are you a zoo keeper? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to zoo keeping. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.