Zoo Manager/Director

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As a zookeeper, your responsibility will be the welfare of animals kept in safari parks, zoos, petting farms, wildlife parks or other animal attractions open to the public. Zookeepers also look after animals in private collections, though this is less common.  

Usually, you'll specialise in working with one type of animal, or in a particular
section of the zoo, such as with great apes, penguins, African animals, reptiles or in an aviary. By focusing on one area, you'll grow to understand the animals in your care well, allowing you to provide them with the best opportunity to thrive within captivity.

Although animal welfare is a critical feature of the role, equally vital is your ability to engage with the public and educate them about the inhabitants of the zoo.

In Australia, a game reserve model is often favoured, with large areas kept as natural habitats for entire ecosystems. Job roles on game reserves have much in common with keeper roles but usually include acting as a tour guide for visitors to the reserve.

Petting zoos are designed for children to feed and pet gentle domesticated animals such as goats, donkeys, sheep and rabbits. Petting zoos sometimes travel with fairs or other attractions from city to city.

There are also a number of private collections owned by wealthy individuals and celebrities who recruit keepers.

ANZSCO ID: 8921

Knowledge, skills and attributes

You will need:

• confidence in approaching and handling animals of all sizes

• scientific observation skills to monitor the wellbeing of animals in your care

• a high level of fitness, good health and the ability to sustain physical work for long periods in all weathers

• great communication skills and the confidence to talk to visitors of all ages, often in large groups

• a driving licence, if you're working in a large zoo or safari park.

Giraffes at Taronga Zoo, Sydney

A critical aspect of working as a zoo keeper is the education of visitors. Visitors value your knowledge and learn about global environmental issues and the importance of wildlife conservation from your talks. Gaining experience interacting with the public in other settings will give you important skills for the role. Many animal charities offer opportunities to promote animal welfare directly to the public, or online, through social media campaigns.

Although primarily designed to entertain and educate the public, most zoos regardless of ownership have a strong emphasis on scientific research and species conservation. Due to this focus, there is a culture of collaboration amongst organisations both in the Australia and internationally, with animals being transferred between zoos in order to mate, or to improve welfare.

Duties and Tasks

Your responsibilities as a zookeeper will include:

• keeping animal enclosures clean, germ-free and safely secured
• preparing food such as pellets, fresh produce, meat or hay and administer medications
• observing animals and check for any signs of distress or ill health
• designing, building and repairing environments which are as close to natural habitats as possible
• coming up with creative ideas for enrichment to keep animals active and interested in their environments
• working with other professionals such as vets
• educating visitors by sharing your animal knowledge through demonstrations with live animals, talks, tours, and visitor experiences
• keeping daily detailed records of behaviour, eating habits, births, deaths and other events
• assisting with breeding procedures and raising young animals, particularly with endangered species
• training animal behaviour to make feeding, medicating and monitoring easy and safe.

Did You Know? Why Giraffe's have Spots? Rather than being uniformly dark, it appears that evolution has rearranged the giraffe’s skin pigmentation to combine camouflage with thermoregulation. Each patch has its own, single, unique, central artery. The artery then sends long radiating branches in a broad, delicate and beautiful fan to fill the entire patch. Known as an angiosome, this blood vessel architecture occurs with blood supplied by a key source artery and drained by other specific veins. This unique vascular anatomy of the giraffe patches allows them to ‘switch on or off’ to expel or retain heat shunted directly to the lungs from where the heat is most efficiently expelled. This ingenious mechanism saves muscles, organs and other structures from dealing with the high temperatures during the day and can strategically redeploy blood with the greatest efficiency – an evolutionary benefit that can mean the difference between life and death in the natural habitat of the giraffe. At night, when temperatures plummet, the shunting vessels close to keep the warmer blood around the muscles and organs, helping the giraffe maintain its temperature. (Source: Pursuit, Uni Melbourne) Mogo Wildlife Park zookeeper Sam Ion with Oni the giraffe. (Source: SMH) If you listen to "What the Duck" from 10mins in to 13 mins you will be given a verbal explanation about the Thermal Regulation in the patches! Other resources about Giraffes The Conversation: 5 May 2023: Research shows giraffes can use statistical reasoning. They're the first animal with a relatively small brain known to do this.

Working hours

As a zookeeper, you'll need to be prepared to work year round, and over weekends too. Animals require care and attention every day, including Christmas and other holidays. You're likely to be part of a 'call out' rota, meaning you'll need to be available outside of working hours in case of emergencies. Keepers often work unpaid overtime and need to be flexible about their days off, particularly if animals are unwell or births are expected.

Part time, seasonal and short contracts are common.

What to expect

• You'll get the opportunity to build close and trusting relationships with animals and play a critical role in their conservation. Some keepers develop international reputations for their specialist knowledge.
• It will be necessary to work long hours, over weekends and with early starts. Your daily tasks can be repetitive and physically demanding, with a large part of your role dedicated to hosing, scrubbing, sweeping and disinfecting enclosures.
• In most animal collections, physical contact between keepers and animals is minimised. Over-handling or treating zoo animals like pets can change their behaviours, and impact on breeding success. Despite this, you may form strong bonds with the animals you care for, which can make it emotionally difficult when the animals are moved to other collections, or reach the end of their lives.
• Zoos are spread out around the country, so you may need to relocate in order to progress, or to specialise in work with particular animals.

Zookeepers at the Wild Life Sydney Zoo
(Source: Daily Telegraph)

Education and training/entrance requirements

Most organisations housing animal collections have a focus on conservation, research and education. Although not exclusively a graduate profession, keepers are increasingly qualified to degree level, and often to postgraduate level.

You don't need a degree to be a zookeeper, as practical animal experience is paramount. However, most zoo keepers do have a degree, and increasingly new entrants to the profession are educated to postgraduate level in animal related disciplines.

Aspiring zookeepers can apply for apprenticeships or work their way into the profession by gaining transferable skills in other animal-focused roles. Having a degree in zoology, or a life science such as biology or psychology, can be advantageous. Another option would be to study for a degree in a related subject, such as animal science or animal behaviour and welfare.

It's extremely unlikely that you'll find paid work in a zoo without significant experience with animals. However, many zoos have a number of voluntary opportunities or internships on offer, which are usually detailed on their websites. Many other animal organisations rely on the support of volunteers and these can offer opportunities for gaining the practical skills required, such as working with domestic animals or native wildlife in vet practices, petting farms, sanctuaries, stables, kennels or catteries. (Source: Prospects UK)

Did You Know? Many species of crustaceans, insects, cephalopods (squid, cuttlefish, octopuses and their relatives), frogs, lizards and fish can change colour. They all have one thing in common: they are ectotherms (animals that cannot generate their own body heat in the same way as mammals and birds) and only ectotherms have the specialised cells that enable colour change! In ectotherms, cells containing pigments are called chromatophores and are largely responsible for generating skin and eye colour. (Source: The Conversation)

 

 

 

A zoo manager is in charge of planning, directing, evaluating, and coordinating zoo operations. He or she supervises employees as well as the care and handling of animals. A zoo manager is also responsible for relaying information and direction to personnel, implementing procedures related to animal care and collection, supervising the maintenance of facilities, and ensuring compliance with laws relevant to zoo operations.

 

ANZSCO ID: N/A
  
Alternative names: Zoo Director;
  
Specialisations: Zoo managers can work at zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks and reserves.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

To be a successful zoo manager it is essential to have an expansive knowledge in wildlife management procedures and protocols, thorough understanding of the needs and habits of the different types of animals in the zoological collection, advanced management skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and possess basic knowledge in veterinary medicine. The manager should be able to develop and organize fascinating zoological exhibits; conduct interesting and instructive tours; effectively direct and coordinate personnel activities; as well as prepare documents and generate clear and concise reports.

Zoo managers need to have:

• knowledge of animal biology and the and scientific classification of animals

• skill in caring for and handling animals

• an understanding of legislation relevant to their work.

• budgeting, administration and business management skills

• people management skills

• knowledge of botany

• good communication skills, including presentation and public speaking skills

• organisational ability

They may also need to have some veterinary skills.

Director of Wildlife Conservation and Science Simon Duffy [Taronga Zoo, Sydney] with University of Sydney Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Richard Miles at the Taronga Zoo's Institute for Science and Learning. CREDIT:JAMES BRICKWOOD
(Source: SMH)

Duties and Tasks

The extent of a zoo manager’s duties ranges from administrative tasks to marketing and public relations. He or she is responsible for implementing policies, planning annual budget and managing expenditures, conferring with executives to establish and improve procedures and goals, assigning responsibilities and schedules, establishing work principles and conducting employee evaluations, maintaining inventories and zoological specimens, overseeing the design and restoration of exhibits, and directing overall facility maintenance. A zoo manager is also involved with developing sales strategies, promotional events and fund raising activities; handling public questions and complaints; corresponding with other facilities and institutions to exchange information; consulting with veterinarians and establishing animal care such as handling methods, dietary needs, habitat, and sanitation procedures.

Zoo managers may do some or all of the following tasks:

• assume overall responsibility for the health and well-being of animals

• manage the zoo's operational budget

• manage staff and volunteers

• ensure animal enclosures are in good order and recommend or undertake any necessary maintenance, repairs or design changes

• if necessary, refer animals for veterinary procedures

• plan displays and exhibits

• keep up to date with relevant legislation such as that relating to wildlife and transport procedures

• read reports written by zookeepers or park rangers

• plan and manage animal conservation and research programmes

• give public talks on conservation issues

• oversee the relationship between the zoo and local community

• plan the movement of animals between locations

Lion cub Phoenix, held by Mogo Zoo director Chad Staples, who waited until after the fire (2020) to name him.
CREDIT:JAMES BRICKWOOD

(Source: SMH)

 

Working conditions

Zoo managers typically work regular hours with weekend schedules. They work in zoological gardens, aquariums, wildlife parks and nature reserves. Though strict adherence to safety procedures minimizes occupational hazards, zoo managers take considerable risks when dealing with dangerous animals. They should be capable of moving about animal habitats and physically handling animals.

Education and training/entrance requirements

In order to work as a zoo manager, it is necessary to obtain a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, veterinary science, business administration or other related fields. Most zoological gardens require applicants to have at least two years in zoo keeping experience and supervisory level work. Additional background in management and animal welfare is also favourable.

Useful experience for zoo managers includes:

• working with animals, especially exotic animals

• work as a zookeeper

• university courses in biological sciences

• management experience

Did You Know? SIMON DUFFY, DIRECTOR OF TARONGA Zoo Sydney - CAMEO In 2009, Simon was awarded the position of Director of Wildlife Conservation and Science at Taronga Conservation Society Australia. In this role he is responsible for over 150 zoo keepers, 12 researchers, 5 veterinarians, 5 curators and all the wildlife conservation outcomes that they contribute to. (Source: Facebook) The following excerpt has been taken directly from Taronga Zoo's media release 24 January 2019 He has been appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia in recognition of his work in wildlife conservation, both in Australia and for primate species in Africa. Simon is among an inspiring cohort of local Aussie heroes named on the Australia Day 2019 Honours List. “I feel honoured to receive this award,” says Simon, “but also very fortunate that I’ve been able to work with the people and projects that I have over my career. I am also proud of Taronga and the journey it has been on in its transformation from a traditional zoo to a zoo-based conservation organisation. A zoo visit today is about being inspired by some of the world’s wildlife while also discovering ways each of us can live more sustainably and conserve wildlife.” A long-time employee of Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Simon, originally from NSW’s Wagga Wagga, started as a work experience zoo keeper at Taronga Western Plains Zoo when he was just 15. After university he secured a role in Taronga Sydney’s education team, relocating from his home town to Sydney in 1996. Since that time Simon has held various roles at Taronga, including nine years in the position of Director of Wildlife Conservation and Science. Simon has worked in wildlife conservation for more than 20 years. “There have been so many highlights in my career,” says Simon, “Some of the most memorable have included starting Taronga’s Roar & Snore sleepover program, leading the conservation team when we bred and released the 50,000th animal to the wild, helping to launch Taronga’s sustainable seafood campaign and being involved in the development of Taronga’s Institute of Science and Learning.” “At Taronga we talk about a 360° commitment to wildlife,” Simon adds, “which means we don’t just focus on wildlife, but we have a holistic focus that also includes communities and habitats. Taronga’s skills in caring for small populations of wildlife, wildlife ecology, veterinary health, biosecurity, nutrition, community education and animal welfare is increasingly being called upon for the recovery and conservation of wildlife in Australia and around the world.” As well as being recognised for his commitment to the conservation of local species, Simon is being honoured with an Order of Australia medal for his work with endangered primate species in Africa. Since his first meeting with renowned primatologist Jane Goodall in 1997, Simon has worked with the Jane Goodall Institute on primate conservation and volunteered in Chimpanzee sanctuaries in Uganda, Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. “These experiences are life changing,” he says. “I work with chimpanzees that were orphaned by the illegal pet and bush meat trade and people that are dedicating their lives to wildlife, despite the horrific troubles and daily challenges they have to face in their homes. The stories of struggle, hope, and commitment to a peaceful future are mind blowing.” Simon with 'Kalum', a rescued Chimpanzee Today Simon is the Chair of the Jane Goodall Institute Australia Board. The Institute contributes to programs in Africa for wildlife but also coordinates Roots & Shoots, a youth led action program where kids all around the globe can make a difference. “We live in an age of rapid and unprecedented planetary change,” Simon says. “According to the 2018 Living Planet Report, wildlife populations have declined by 60 per cent in just over 40 years. In saying this, there is hope. We are fortunate that we are the generation that has a clear understanding of the value of nature and our impact on it and we may be the last generation that can take action to reverse the trend – a decisive moment in our history." “The key to conserving wildlife is the knowledge and commitment that we can all act. The choices we make and our everyday behaviours make a difference. It can be as simple as finding out and making purchasing choices that have little to no impact on wildlife, reducing our consumption overall and finding our personal magnificence and value in what we contribute not what we consume.” (Source: Taronga Zoo)

 

 

 

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Veterinarian	Zoo Education Manager	Zoologist

 

Materials sourced from
Prospects UK;
Great Sampler Resume [Zoo Manager; ]
Schools Look4 [Zoo Manager; ]
Your Career [Zookeeper; ]

 

 

 

 

 

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