Welcome to Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo’s celebration of National Zookeeper Week! This week, from July 20th to July 26th, is dedicated to honoring the incredible zookeepers who tirelessly care for our animals and educate the public about wildlife conservation. Zookeepers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our animal residents, from feeding and medical care to enrichment activities and habitat maintenance. Their passion, dedication, and expertise are essential to our zoo’s success and our animals’ happiness.
We are immensely grateful for our zookeepers’ hard work and commitment. Their daily efforts make a significant difference in the lives of the animals and the experience of our visitors. In this blog, we are excited to highlight some of our amazing zookeepers, sharing their stories and insights into the rewarding and challenging world of zookeeping. Join us in celebrating these remarkable individuals who make our zoo a wonderful place for animals and visitors.
Meet Cassidy
Cassidy’s greatest joy as a zookeeper is educating others about the animals at the zoo. Inspired by Steve Irwin, Cassidy believes the only way to protect and save wildlife is by encouraging others to care about them. A memorable moment in Cassidy’s career was training the zoo’s Komodo dragon to perform various behaviors, a dream come true since childhood.
Cassidy’s typical day involves taking care of reptile exhibits, feeding snakes, cleaning enclosures, and performing educational shows for the public. Positive reinforcement training techniques are used to build trust with the animals, showing them that their keepers are not scary but bring gifts and food. Cassidy wishes people knew how deeply loved the animals at the zoo are. Many zookeepers even have photos of the animals they care for on their phone lock screens.
Behind the scenes, Cassidy shares that every animal, even the rattlesnakes, gets baby-talked daily. The Snake Farm also participates in breeding programs for rare and endangered species, contributing to the conservation of many reptiles on the IUCN Red List. For aspiring zookeepers, Cassidy advises staying in school and continuously learning, as the field is constantly evolving and that’s what makes it exciting.
Meet Savannah
Savannah loves the unique bonds formed with the extraordinary animals in her care, especially the endangered species otherwise rarely seen. One of the most memorable moments involves spending time with the affectionate goats at the zoo. The goats love to be cuddled, and others soon join in when petting one. Often, Savannah finds 3-5 goats, 2 mini cows, and a deer all vying for attention.
A lifelong desire to work in animal care led Savannah to zookeeping, a field that allows interaction with a wide variety of animals while gaining valuable experience in medication, cleaning, and grooming. A typical day starts with checking up on the animals in the petting zoo and cleaning their exhibits. Then, the carnivores’ diets are prepared, their dinner is served, the goats’ hooves are trimmed, and an interactive show is finished. Ensuring the care logs are accurate and up-to-date is also a key part of the routine.
A fun behind-the-scenes fact is that the fennec foxes, Joe and Janet, are super active in the mornings and evenings despite often being found sleeping during the day. Joe greets Savannah every morning by zipping around the exhibit, rolling onto his back, and wagging his tail. For aspiring zookeepers, Savannah advises learning as much as possible about every animal of interest, pursuing an animal-related degree, gaining experience through volunteering, and even brushing up on raking skills.
Meet Karissa
Karissa loves working with various unique animals and finds bonding closely with certain ones particularly special. One memorable moment involved gaining the trust of a new lemur at the facility who had been struggling to interact with other keepers. Karissa spent time with the lemur and built a connection allowing for positive interactions.
From a young age, Karissa desired to work closely with exotic animals. Although the veterinary field felt too medical, zookeeping offered the perfect balance. A typical day begins with checking emails and the enrichment sheet to see which animals need enrichment. Karissa then gathers diets and supplies, checks enclosure temperatures, and spends several hours cleaning exhibits. Afterward, diets are prepared, shows are performed, and various projects and mammal encounters are conducted. The day ends with cleaning tasks, logging activities, and completing enrichment sheets.
Karissa advises aspiring zookeepers to understand that the job involves more cleaning than one might expect and requires comfort with public speaking. A degree and internships are essential along with making connections through volunteer work and keeping good references. Persistence is key as the job can be challenging to enter but becomes more manageable once established.
Meet Deana
Deana loves bonding with the animals and seeing them every day, knowing that her efforts help give them a great life. She enjoys sharing her experiences with others and is always enthusiastic about discussing her job. A memorable moment for Deana was caring for the last litter of white lion cubs, knowing that helping a critically endangered species population is both awe-inspiring and fulfilling.
Growing up on a cattle farm, Deana was always surrounded by animals and watched her grandfather care for them, which left a lasting impression on her life. A typical day for Deana involves hours of cleaning, feeding, and general caretaking of the animals in the morning. Throughout the day, she maintains enclosures and engages in private educational encounters with guests and interactive shows.
Deana advises aspiring zookeepers to understand that zookeeping is far from just “playing” with animals. It is a labor-intensive job that requires being on your feet for long hours and doing much heavy lifting. Tasks also include mowing, weeding, painting bars, and adding new branches to enclosures.
Meet Amber
Amber loves working with a wide variety of mammals and birds, including small mammals, hoofstock, primates, large carnivores, and parrots. Caring for these animals is a gratifying job that brings immense satisfaction. One memorable moment was celebrating Tilly’s 6th birthday, a common brown lemur, by making her a birthday card for enrichment.
Amber’s passion for working with animals was sparked in high school during an environmental science class focused on conserving endangered and threatened species. The inspiring teacher helped Amber realize that a career in zookeeping was the perfect fit. A typical day involves cleaning exhibits, making diets, feeding the animals, and conducting shows and encounters for guests.
A behind-the-scenes story that visitors might not know is that the zookeeper team engages in bonding activities, from jamming to music in the kitchen while preparing diets to painting boxes and other items for enrichment outside of work. For aspiring zookeepers, Amber advises gaining hands-on experience through volunteering or internships at rehabilitation facilities or zoos and pursuing a degree in an animal-related field like Zoology or Wildlife Biology.
Meet Kevin
Kevin loves the opportunity to work with amazing animals and teach guests of all ages to appreciate them. As a zookeeper, Kevin has the incredible chance to reshape people’s negative perceptions of animals such as snakes while offering new and exciting experiences to kids, hoping to inspire the next generation. A memorable moment with Tilly, the Brown Lemur, will always brighten anyone’s day. Tilly often curls up in Kevin’s arms, making cute grunts and giving lots of licks.
Growing up watching Kevin Richardson and the late Steve Irwin, Kevin was inspired to become a zookeeper. Richardson sparked a love for mammals, mainly spotted hyenas, which are now favorites thanks to Songa and Sniffs, the two hyena residents at the zoo. Steve Irwin’s excitement and love for animals resonated globally. As a keeper, Kevin strives to teach and interact with guests with the same enthusiasm.
A typical day for Kevin involves morning care for the animals and exhibits, including feeding, training, and ensuring enclosures are in top shape. The day is filled with educational shows and one-on-one encounters where guests can learn about the animal ambassadors up close. Trust and bonds with the animals are built through training centered around positive reinforcement, creating an exciting and engaging environment.
Kevin wishes people knew that snakes do not want to hurt anyone. It’s a common misconception that snakes are aggressive, but like most wild animals, they will only bite if provoked. It’s important to appreciate them from a distance and understand their role in the ecosystem. Kevin advises aspiring zookeepers to get started as early as possible. Working at an animal shelter or pet-sitting can provide fundamental experience and there is always time to start learning. The best time to start is now.
Meet Kendall
Kendall loves being a zookeeper because of the opportunity to learn something new every day. A particularly memorable moment was during one of Kendall’s first lion shows, where the male lion stood up on command for the first time, showcasing a rewarding interaction with such a magnificent animal. This passion for animals developed over time, leading Kendall to switch majors to animal science and pursue a dream job as a zookeeper.
A typical day for Kendall involves ensuring all the animals’ homes are clean and feeding some of them. Educational shows are a highlight, where guests learn about the fantastic animals in Kendall’s care. One-on-one encounters with guests and educational animals add to the day’s activities and animal maintenance to ensure their health. The day ends with settling the animals in for the night before heading home.
A behind-the-scenes story that stands out for Kendall is the arrival of the skunks. Having never been close to a skunk before, Kendall was amazed by their sweetness and quickly grew fond of them. For aspiring zookeepers, Kendall’s advice is never to give up, as getting into the animal field can be challenging. Following your passion for working with animals and continuously learning is critical to success.
Meet Gabrielle
Gabrielle is currently studying wildlife biology and joined our team to gain hands-on experience with the animals she’s always loved. Her favorite part of the job is getting to see each animal’s personality shine through.
One memorable moment for Gabrielle is when the capybaras will rub against her knees to scent mark her, a sign that she’s one of their favorite people.
From daily maintenance to preparing for shows, Gabrielle’s role involves keeping our animals healthy, enriched, and thriving behind the scenes. Her advice for anyone interested in this career is to find your niche and gain experience early — a passion for animals is key.
Meet Lainey
Lainey has always had a deep love for animals and knew early on that she wanted to care for them and give them the best life possible. What she enjoys most about being a zookeeper is getting to know each animal’s unique personality and forming strong connections with them.
Her days are busy, but full of teamwork and fun. Every keeper plays a part in making sure the animals are well cared for. Lainey wishes more people knew just how much love and attention each animal receives. “We treat them like they’re our own.”
Meet Emrye
With a passion for both conservation and education, Emrye found zookeeping to be the perfect path. Her role allows her to care for animals while also inspiring others to care about wildlife.
Each day is different. From cleaning, feeding, and health checks to enclosure upkeep and even paperwork, Emrye works hard to make sure every animal receives excellent care. One of her most rewarding experiences has been working with Birdshot, a mini zebu cow who has grown more trusting and comfortable through training.
Emrye enjoys sharing fun facts with guests, like how many of the animals have names and will respond to them. Jimmy and Juggs, our Watusi cattle, are perfect examples and often come over when called.
She encourages anyone interested in this career to apply for every opportunity. A strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and hands-on dedication can go a long way in this field.
Meet Casey
Casey loves taking care of baby lions and clouded leopards, finding joy in nurturing these incredible animals. Consistency and patience are key to building trust and bonds with the animals, ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for. A typical day for Casey involves various tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and providing enrichment activities to keep the animals healthy and engaged.
A memorable behind-the-scenes moment for Casey is with the zoo’s umbrella cockatoo. The cockatoo loves coming out for nail trims because it gets to listen to music and receive lots of love from the keeper staff. Casey wishes people knew that the animals at the zoo are individuals with their own personalities and needs. Understanding and respecting these differences is essential for their care.
Inspired to become a zookeeper by a passion for wildlife and a desire to make a difference, Casey’s advice for aspiring zookeepers is to gain as much volunteer or intern experience as possible. This hands-on experience is invaluable in building the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in zookeeping.
Meet Kim
Kim took a non-traditional path into zookeeping. While earning her bachelor’s degree, she had the chance to work with snakes at another facility, which sparked a deeper passion for reptiles and led her to pursue a career in the field.
One of her favorite parts of the job is forming strong bonds with the animals and getting to showcase their unique personalities, especially during educational shows. She also enjoys seeing guests interact with reptiles for the first time and watching their perspectives change.
A recent memorable moment for Kim has been training with our beaded lizards and Gila monsters. One of her favorite behaviors is when they drink from a squeeze bottle — a simple moment that shows how special and interactive reptiles can be.
From daily husbandry and feeding routines to training sessions and zoo improvement projects, Kim plays a vital role in animal care. She encourages future zookeepers to gain hands-on experience by volunteering and putting themselves out there.
Meet Alex
With a lifelong love for reptiles, Alex always knew she wanted to work with snakes, and now she gets to do just that. Her favorite part of the job is building bonds with the animals and sharing their unique personalities with others.
One special connection she has is with Orlando, our Indigo Snake. When she first started working in his section, he kept his distance. Now, he regularly greets her in the mornings and even comes out of his enclosure while she cleans.
Her daily responsibilities include enclosure maintenance, health checks, feedings, enrichment, and educating guests through shows and encounters. Alex hopes more people understand that reptiles are not malicious. They are intelligent, full of personality, and play an important role in the environment.
Her advice to aspiring zookeepers is to be ready to work hard. The animals rely on consistent, dedicated care every single day. The work may be tough, but the reward is worth it.
Meet Alieya
Alieya has always been drawn to animals, but a close encounter with a cheetah during a zoo visit is what solidified her dream of becoming a zookeeper. Now, she finds the most rewarding part of her job is forming bonds with the animals and watching those relationships grow over time.
One of her favorite moments has been with Joe, our fennec fox, who now excitedly greets her every morning. It’s something she looks forward to each day.
From feeding, cleaning, and providing treatments to leading shows and encounters, Alieya’s daily work is hands-on and full of variety. She reminds guests that while zoo animals may be friendly, they are not pets.
For those considering a career in zookeeping, Alieya encourages volunteering early and exploring all academic paths. Her own degree is in psychology, and she emphasizes that hard work and continuous learning are just as important as passion.
Conclusion
As National Zookeeper Week comes to a close, we at Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated and passionate zookeepers. Their tireless work and unwavering commitment to animal care and conservation make a significant impact on both the lives of our animal residents and the experiences of our visitors. Through their stories, we hope you have gained a deeper appreciation for the remarkable individuals who devote their lives to nurturing and protecting wildlife.
Each zookeeper’s journey is unique, filled with memorable moments, challenges, and triumphs. From building trust with the animals to educating the public and inspiring the next generation, their roles are as diverse as the animals they care for. We are incredibly proud of our team and the love and dedication they bring to their work every day.
Stay curious, stay inspired, and always keep learning about the amazing animals that make our world so special. We look forward to welcoming you to Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo, where you can see the dedication of our zookeepers in action and experience the wonder of wildlife up close.