{"id":26761,"date":"2021-04-01T13:01:45","date_gmt":"2021-04-01T12:01:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stonebridge-blog.positive-dedicated.net\/?p=26761"},"modified":"2021-04-01T13:01:47","modified_gmt":"2021-04-01T12:01:47","slug":"how-to-become-a-zookeeper","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/animal-care\/how-to-become-a-zookeeper\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Become a Zookeeper"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Zookeepers provide care and enrichment for a diverse range of animals, whether they\u2019re large and predatory, rare or exotic. By deciding to become a Zookeeper, you position yourself for a career that helps to save endangered species from extinction. As well as educate the public about what each needs to thrive and survive in the wild.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Employment opportunities exist within zoos, wildlife or safari parks, where you\u2019ll be able to work closely with some of the most incredible animals in existence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most modern zoos are driven by conservation, so there\u2019s a great sense of fulfilment that comes with the role. As many are involved in international and regional breeding programmes, it\u2019s not uncommon for Zookeepers to help raise rare and critically endangered animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While being a Zookeeper is clearly an attractive career prospect, and a competitive one at that, it isn\u2019t for everyone. You must be prepared for hard physical work and a schedule that\u2019s outside of the usual 9-5.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But if you\u2019re prepared for this, you\u2019ll no doubt experience a rewarding career. Find out more about what the role is like, the skills required and what qualifications you need to apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Is Zookeeping for me?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The role of a Zookeeper is certainly dynamic, challenging and interesting, but it can also be quite repetitive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regular tasks like cleaning out enclosures won\u2019t be the highlight of your day. But they are essential to maintain a healthy environment for the animals in your care. You\u2019ll also need to be relatively fit to effectively scrub, sweep, disinfect and hose down the enclosure. As well as carry the supplies you need around the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Feeding duties are also regular but tend to be more of an enjoyable – and less smelly \u2013 experience. These often give you more of a chance to interact with the animals and monitor their conditions. Observing their behaviour and appearance to check for any signs of distress or ill-health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Animals require care 24\/7, so working early mornings, late into the evening or over the weekend isn\u2019t uncommon. Aside from preparing and providing them with a nutritious diet, you can be required to administer medication if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll keep records of all the animals in your care. Documenting all patterns and changes in behaviour, eating habits and mood. Allowing you to provide accurately representative information to other health professionals, like vets, should they need further care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll be well acquainted with the needs and activities of the animals you work with. Which often positions you well to assist with designing, building and repairing their enclosures. This helps ensure their safety and that the enclosure imitates the animal’s natural habitat as closely as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the most enjoyable and creative parts of your role is coming up with ideas for enrichment. Designing games and activities that encourage animals to play, exercise and enjoy mental stimulation throughout their day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You will also take part in educating zoo visitors through demonstrations, presentations, guided tours and visitor experience packages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Skills you will need:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Aside from being passionate about animal welfare and conservation, there are a host of skills and character traits you\u2019ll need as a Zookeeper:<\/p>\n\n\n\n