Careers in Zoos and Aquariums 9781585111756, 1585111759

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CAREERS IN

ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS

Institute Research Number 175 ISBN 1-59511-175-9 DOT Codes 412674010, 449674010 O*NET SOC Code 39-2021.00

CAREERS IN

ZOOS & AQUARIUMS YOU CAN HELP PRESERVE ENDANGERED WILDLIFE THROUGH SUCCESSFUL CONSERVATION AND BREEDING PROGRAMS CONTRIBUTE THROUGH EDUCATION TO UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION OF THE NATURAL WORLD LONG BEFORE THE PRESENCE OF

humans on earth, creatures roamed the landscapes and swam the waters. We know this because history and archeological digs reveal evidence that they were huge, fast and very dangerous. But we can only read about them and study their remains preserved in sand, stone and earth that continue to be discovered in all parts of the world. And we can view their reconstructed bodies in natural history museums across the country. Fast forward to more modern times and the wonder of zoos and aquariums where many animal species have been winning hearts for more than a 2

century. While we can still read about animals in the wild in far away places, or view an animal or nature series on television, we can also enjoy these magnificent creatures at public, private and nonprofit facilities across the country. Most of us will never get to see first hand the animal kingdom in its natural habitats. But we can visit the facilities and learn about the birds, mammals, reptiles and fish that are protected and cared for. Zoos also are involved in the vital work of preserving many species that are in danger of becoming extinct. Development, poaching, pollution, lack of money and other factors of modern life are causing wildlife to disappear in this country and around the world. Zoos and aquariums are helping preserve endangered wildlife through successful conservation and breeding programs along with documenting a better understanding of animal behavior.

WHY WE NEED ZOOS CAN YOU IMAGINE A WORLD WITHOUT ANIMALS? EVERY BIRD, MAMMAL,

reptile, insect and fish add to the protection of our ecosystem. Natural habitats around the world are shrinking and many species are being cut off from one another by highways, private and public development, dams and more. Even migratory bird routes used for hundred of years have been detoured or blocked in some way. As we work the land, cut down trees, pollute air and water here and around the world, we are losing many species and placing others in great danger. The Przewalski’s horses, originally from China and Mongolia, have been extinct for some years, but through a successful breeding program in zoos there are now several hundred in captivity. The pygmy chimpanzee, once found only in central Zaire, is all but extinct in the wilds with less than a hundred remaining in captivity. The black rhino from Kenya was almost made extinct through poaching. Between 1970 and 1990, almost 98 percent of this species was killed for its horns that were either ground down to make an aphrodisiac or carved into daggers. The male golden lion tamarin (monkey), once thousands strong in its native Brazilian rain forest, now thought to be nearly extinct.

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Polluted lakes and rivers in the 1970s and 1980s wiped out many species of fish and other marine life crucial to the delicate balance of life under the waters. These examples do not even cover a small fraction of the wildlife and plant life lost over the last century. A few species on the brink of extinction, such as the bald eagle, the California condor and the wolf, have been rescued, bred and reintroduced into the wild. But the situation remains dire and even though many throughout the world are working to find solutions, the problems are overwhelming. The Chicago Tribune reported recently in a front page story that “A small flock of endangered whooping cranes finished a 1,200-mile journey to Florida, almost seven weeks after the birds began following researchers in ultralight aircraft from Wisconsin.” Only eight young birds made the long flight and one was killed after flying into a power line during a storm. About 400 whooping cranes survive today and biologists and other scientists are “fighting a long and hard battle” to keep their migratory process going with a little help from state and federal government agencies and nonprofit groups. In her 1997 book, THE MODERN ARK, The Story of Zoos: Past, Present and Future, Vicki Croke, a respected nature writer has a clarion call as she writes, “There is a monster loose in the world that is gobbling up every green inch and chopping down every forest. The beast, of course, is the planet’s human population. Every year another 97 million human beings join the crowd – 90 percent of whom are born in less developed tropical countries, where the bulk of the remaining wildlife lives. By 2050 the world’s population could reach 12 billion. That’s 12 billion who need roads and houses and land for crops and domestic animals. Who need fuel and food and wood. Because of that, the nonhuman, nondomesticated animal portion of the planet’s biomass is being squeezed out of existence. The statistics are too much to fathom.”

We need zoos and aquariums now more than ever.

In many instances they are the final repositories of endangered species where care and breeding programs are saving many from total extinction.

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A LABOR OF LOVE ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS EMPLOY MANY MEN AND WOMEN WHO ARE

responsible for their maintenance, their environment, and their relations with the public. As you will learn, this is a big responsibility for those who choose to devote their careers to creatures that come in all shapes, sizes, colors and temperaments. It is a true labor of love for all animals large and small, and is based on the desire to make the wonders of wildlife available to people of here and around the world. The main reason to consider this field is a love of wildlife and nature and a desire to work within this atmosphere and make a difference on the planet earth. We are not talking about just small, cute and cuddly animals but tigers, elephants, seals, dolphins, and many other exotic species. Your love of animals must be all-inclusive. You cannot pick and choose the animals you want to handle since zoos and aquariums have diverse animal collections, and zoo employees usually do not get to select what animals they want to work with, unless they are trained specialists with some breed. This is a career of modest earnings but great satisfaction. Professionals talk of their work with pride and the understanding that their contribution to saving and protecting the wild kingdom is highly valued in many segments of our society. The life includes considerable ongoing personal learning. There is also the job of helping to improve the quality of life for captive animals. There is the mission of educating the public on the importance of conservation and the need to protect endangered species. And there is the pleasure of working with colleagues who feel the same for animals and nature. This is an especially important career for the 21st century. Zoos and aquariums not only give us pleasure and provide us with entertainment, but they also educate and teach us to be respectful and considerate of other living things. It is essential that we learn to live in harmony with the natural world. As the world becomes smaller through globalization, we must seek the balance between our wants and our needs. Appreciating wildlife, through zoos and aquariums, will help us achieve one aspect of that balance. Whether on land or below the water, zoos and aquariums have a variety of specialized positions that include directors, curators, scientists, marine biologists, habitat designers, zoo keepers, veterinarians, and veterinarian technicians. There are also 5

opportunities for gardeners, operations managers, fundraisers, public relations specialists, and a clerical staff. Most facilities also have an educational department as well as a library. The size of the staff will depend upon the size of the facility. We will concentrate on the jobs that directly relate to the hands-on care and protection of the animals in the more than 200 zoos and aquariums accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).

THE CREATION OF THE MODERN ZOO MORE THAN 140 MILLION PEOPLE VISITED AZA-ACCREDITED ZOOS AND

aquariums as well as certified related facilities, theme parks, aquatic parks and other animal facilities in the United States last year. Each facility is unique and includes a variety of habitats from a five-acre animal zoo, to a 322,000 square-foot aquarium, to a 3,000-acre wildlife conservation center and everything in-between. You can watch the creatures at play, do a walk-through tour, or have a safari-type experience. Every facility has its own special attractions. The AZA, founded in 1924 as the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to “the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA’s vision is to work cooperatively to save and protect the wonders of the living natural world.” Prior to AZA, zoos and aquariums were an inconsistent mixture of good, bad and indifferent facilities where creatures were kept mostly for their entertainment value. And in too many instances animals were mistreated and not housed under the best of conditions. The basis of AZA was and remains to establish and maintain the highest standards of animal care and husbandry through an accreditation and certification process that includes established standards and evaluations, the professional qualifications of the staff, on-site inspections and peer review. An accreditation or certification is good for five years. Accreditation is accorded to zoological parks and aquariums, and related facilities such as wildlife refuges, conservation centers, survival or rehab centers, breeding farms, and other animal care organizations.

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Today, these facilities are bright, clean, interesting, educational, inviting and fun places to visit – and work. Guided tours are a regular part of the experience. Exhibits are continually updated and well maintained and the histories of their inhabitants are fully documented and presented. There are programs and special events for people of all ages to participate in. Groups of school children, families, and individuals all can enjoy the wonders of the animal kingdom as presented in our modern zoos and aquariums. Today’s zoo and aquarium experience is enriching. The Port Defiance Zoo in Tacoma, Washington is considered to have an outstanding polar bear exhibit complete with a rushing stream, sand and gravel areas, and a deep pool. The San Diego, California Wild Animal Park offers outdoor exhibits that are as natural as they come and allow the animals to behave naturally. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago has more than 8,000 fish, invertebrates, reptiles, birds and mammals living and playing in aquatic splendor. The Bronx Zoo in New York has one of the best conservation and education programs in the country. Each facility brings something special from the world of nature to the urban dwellers they serve.

The mission of the modern zoo and

aquarium is an evolving process as we learn more about these creatures, their behavioral process and how to better care for them.

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HOW WE GOT HERE IN THE MODERN ARK MS. CROKE WRITES, “THE ZOO, LOOSELY DEFINED AS A

place to keep exotics in captivity, is an ancient notion. And if we trace time through the pits and cages and exalted temples used to display animals, we discover more about the fickle soul of man than about the steady behavior of beasts.” While clay tablets suggest that lions were kept in some type of enclosure in Mesopotamia as early as 2094 BC, zoo historians tell us that the first zoos were in ancient Egypt more than 3,000 years ago. Animals such as lions, baboons, snakes, hippos, bulls, and crocodiles were considered holy and protected in parks that were built for them. History further records that every pharaoh had some type of menagerie in his palace park reserved just for the pleasure of the royal family and important visitors. The Chinese built their first zoo-like structure around 1100 BC, and its approximately 1500-acre walled park contained deer, antelope, goats, birds and fish whose presence was considered spiritual. Royal families in other ancient countries such as Assyria also collected animals. Some were raised as pets while others were bred for fighting. The Babylonians are credited with starting animal medicine by isolating sick animals from the rest of the herd. The early treatments were based on magic – the same used for humans. The supernatural usually prevailed then. Veterinary practice first appeared in India around the second century BC with the sacred status of the cow. But it was the Greeks who first detailed veterinary medicine when King Alexander of Macedonia in about 400 BC, created programs of animal study, and the Greek physician Hippocrates studied the similarities between animal and human physiology and the science of pathology and anatomy. Animal collections were also a part of ancient Greece as warriors brought all kinds of exotic creatures back from their wars and expeditions. It was Aristotle’s zoological encyclopedia, History of Animals, that first catalogued three hundred species of vertebrates. It was his student Alexander the Great that is credited with establishing the first public zoo in the world when he installed one of his generals to be king of Egypt and they built a zoo in Alexandria. Over the centuries animals were revered, sacrificed, used for work and for entertainment. Zoos were out of favor for many years, but in the 13th century, Frederick II emperor of the Holy Roman Empire was a 8

naturalist, ornithologist and author, and revived the concept of zoos with a menagerie unrivaled anywhere up to that time. Royal animal collections alternately faded and were resurrected over a long period of time depending upon monies in the royal treasuries, since animal keeping was very expensive. But a royal collection prevailed in London and in 1828, a public zoo was opened in Regent’s Park. In America, the Philadelphia Zoo received its charter approval in 1859 but due to the Civil War did not actually open until 1874. The Central Park Zoo in New York opened between 1861 and 1862, and the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago opened in 1868. The first collections were modest and included swans, peacocks, prairie dogs, deer, elk, wolves and eagles. In 1874 the Lincoln Park Zoo added a bear and in 1889 an elephant. The National Zoo in Washington, DC opened in April of 1891 “with a healthy surplus of animals.” In 1899, the New York Zoological Park was founded with its purpose “to advance the study of zoology, to educate the public, and to preserve the animals of North America.” The establishment of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1924 emphasized the need for standards in these facilities and over the years has given American zoos a decided advantage in the care and preservation of all creatures, over zoos in any other part of the world.

In the 1930s, aquariums started making their mark

with facilities such as the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, the New York Aquarium in Coney Island, the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California and more. These underwater exhibits joined their zoo cousins in doing more than just displaying marine life. They are also repositories of education, preservation, and care for endangered species. These exhibits also display animals, birds and reptiles who do not live entirely under water, but depend on an abundance of water for their survival.

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Zoos and aquariums today that belong to the AZA are part of a family, collaborating and sharing information, new techniques in animal care, educational programs, breeding and so much more. They have come a long way from the early years before AZA when everything was done in secrecy and the competition to acquire prized animals was fierce. In 1967, the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) was founded “to foster a professional attitude in animal keepers by encouraging them to become active members of the professional teams at today’s zoos and aquariums. AAZK supports the promotion and implementation of zoo keeper education and strives to make the general public aware of our concern for all valid and deserving conservation projects and the need for the preservation of our natural resources and animal life.” The International Marine Animal Trainers Association (IMATA) was founded “to foster communication, professionalism, and cooperation among those who serve marine mammal science through training, public display, research, husbandry, conservation, and education.” The world needs zoos and aquariums to help save the diversity of life. We cannot imagine what the zoos and aquariums will look like at the beginning of the 22nd century, but we do know that they are moving in the right direction with dedication and promise to conserve and preserve the animal kingdom in all its majesty.

CAREER POSSIBILITIES EMPLOYMENT IN ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS IS NOT GLAMOROUS, ESPECIALLY THE

positions that require direct contact with the animals. Physical strength is needed for much of the work and you have to be always on alert to make detailed observations and keep information on all animals up-to-date. This work requires a special kind of dedication to animals, who require attention and care 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of weekends, holidays, snow or sunshine. Positions depend upon the size of the facility and the responsibilities can vary from place to place. Director/Chief Operating Officer Executes policies as directed by the governing authority. Responsible for the institution’s operation and plans for future development. General Curator Oversees an institution’s entire animal collection and animal management staff. Responsible for strategic collection planning. 10

Animal Curator Manages a certain portion of an institution’s animal collection; i.e., mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, etc. Veterinarian Responsible for the healthcare program for the animal collection and the maintenance of health records. Veterinary Technician Assists the veterinarian and provides care to the animals under the supervision of the veterinarian. Registrar Maintains computer records on the animal collection and applies for permits and licenses to hold or transport animals. Director of Research Supervises research projects, serves as liaison between the institution and the academic community, and publishes articles in scientific journals. Director of Conservation Oversees the institution’s conservation activities, including field projects. Serves as liaison with government wildlife agencies and other conservation organizations. Conservation Biologist/Zoologist Provides scientific and technical assistance in the management of the animal collection and assists in conducting various research or field conservation projects. Head Keeper/Aquarist Supervises a section or department of the institution; provides training and scheduling for keepers. Senior Keeper/Aquarist Provides primary care for a department. Keeper/Aquarist Provides daily care to the institution’s animals, including diet preparation, cleaning, general exhibit maintenance, and record keeping. Curator of Exhibits Creates exhibits and assists in the design of graphics. Curator of Horticulture Responsible for the botanical colle7ction and its application to the animal collection, as well as daily maintenance of the institution’s grounds. Curator of Education Plans and implements the institution’s education programs. There are also numerous positions relating to directing and managing the facility, public relations, special events, volunteers, fundraising, membership, gift shop, visitor services and human resources. Many larger institutions also have summer intern programs for high school students. 11

ZOO KEEPERS AND CURATORS KEEPERS AND CURATORS ARE THE PRINCIPAL PROFESSIONALS IN ZOOS AND

aquariums. They ensure that all the animals are kept in the best of health under the best of conditions and that they are displayed in an appropriate and attractive setting. Both positions have degrees of responsibilities depending upon the experience and seniority of the individual, as well as the size of the institution.

Zoo Keeper/Aquarist Keeper is the title used in zoos, and aquarist is the title used in aquariums. Their work is identical in most aspects with one major difference – an aquarist must be a certified diver. However, you can still use the title keeper to describe both positions, and we will use it here. Keepers care for a diverse collection of animals from mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians to fish and invertebrates. Keepers can become specialized and concentrate their work on a specific group of animals such as great apes, reptiles, exotic birds, etc. From apprentice keeper up to head keeper, these professionals participate in all aspects of daily animal care and the maintenance of their exhibit space. Essential work includes cleaning, feeding, watering, securing, training, and observing animals, as well as record keeping, maintaining exhibits and the grooming of domestic animals. Daily tasks may include heavy manual and skilled work such as moving and manipulating heavy food items, bales of hay, hoses, equipment and crated animals. The cleaning and maintaining of the animal exhibits may include the use of chemicals and special tools which are used to ensure the health and safety of the animals. Healthy animals are the number one goal and the keeper monitors the health of the animals on a daily basis by observing eating habits, general activity, behavior and appearance, interaction with others and then reports any abnormalities or problems to the area supervisor without delay. Under the supervision of the veterinarian, the keeper can also administer necessary therapeutics. In cooperation with senior management staff, the keeper will prepare and distribute animal diets and make recommendations regarding change of diet, habitat redesign and other related matters. Monitoring the condition of the habitat and requesting emergency repairs immediately are essential to a clean, healthy and safe environment for the animals as well as the keeper. Daily written 12

reports are required as well as maintaining an inventory of equipment and supplies. The keeper is always mindful of established animal handling and related safety guidelines. Knowledge of occupational hazards and the necessity of safe work practices while in proximity of potentially dangerous animals is crucial. There are established animal escape drills and procedures as well as guidelines for the capture, restraint and transport of animals. Coordination and cooperation with other zoo departments are important. In addition, all shifts work necessary hours including weekends, holidays and special events. The keeper must have a good knowledge of general husbandry practices and methods; animal behavior and natural history; common environmental enrichment and animal training practices; biology and related subjects. There is also the necessity of keeping comprehensive and accurate records. Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to interact courteously with colleagues and visitors to the facility are also important. The physical requirements are demanding since the keeper must be able to remain standing (or underwater in a tank) for long periods of time; perform a variety of physical tasks that can include climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, crawling, etc. Physical strength also includes the ability to move up to 50 pounds of food, equipment or supplies. There is also the need to work in small, confined spaces, and, in zoos, work outside in all weather conditions. Most zoos today require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in the biological sciences (biology, marine biology, zoology, ecology) or a closely related discipline, to be considered for the position of keeper or aquarist. In certain instances, a comparable combination of education, experience or training may provide the acceptable level of knowledge, skills and ability required to qualify an individual for the position.

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Zoo/Aquarium Curator Curators manage an institution’s varied collection of animals, staff, budgets, associated facilities and the breeding, conservation and research programs. General curators are charged with the overall direction of the facility, and the supervisors of each area or department are charged with its day-to-day implementation. Curators work in cooperation with the keepers and aquarists to design the best course of action for the animals and for the institution. From the general curator to the curators for each collection, these professionals are responsible for the development and implementation of all animal department programs, and policies and procedures. As a senior staff member, the curator will participate in the various renovation and building designs for the facility, the development of educational programs, research review and, in some institutions, the cultivation of donors. The prime concern of zoos and aquariums is the animal collection. A curator will develop a collection plan that includes acquisitions and dispositions, appropriate breeding programs, good nutritional and health delivery programs in conjunction with the veterinary staff, and will establish proper animal husbandry practices. In addition, there is overseeing record keeping and maintaining inventories. Curators participate in using systematic observational techniques and other approved procedures for a better understanding of the behavior, groups dynamics, and biology of animals in their collection. This leads to the mission of the facility and the scientific management of the collection through research, collaborating with other institutions and universities, and field projects to benefit species conservation. Computer proficiency is essential. Management duties include establishing policies and procedures for various departments consistent with the institution’s mission and goals; input in the design of exhibits, displays, animal service areas and public areas; developing and monitoring budgets and expenditures while prioritizing needs and preparing necessary reports; and making decisions for the best use of budgeted monies. Curators, along with keepers, must always be mindful of conforming to all local, state, federal, foreign and international laws regarding the health, maintenance, acquisition, shipment and overall welfare of the collection.

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Complete knowledge of animal species, behaviors and habitats in their charge, as well as a thorough understanding of the principles of captive exotic animal management are required. Personnel management skills are necessary along with interpersonal skills and the ability to use sound judgment. Excellent written and oral communications skills are needed as the curator details technical reports and records and interacts with colleagues and the general public in and out of the institution. The head curator in some large institutions today holds a doctorate degree. Most institutions require at least a master’s in zoology or a related science field for this position. A curator will also usually have at least seven years animal experience, including five years in a supervisory capacity. The prospective curator should have experience in developing and implementing conservation and research programs. The other workers that zoos and aquariums find indispensable are the volunteers. Without the thousands of men and women who give their time to assist an institution’s staff, many zoos and aquariums would be forced to pare down their activities and even cut visiting hours.

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ZOO PROFESSIONALS TELL ABOUT THEIR CAREERS I’m a Senior Zoo Keeper “My days are long and very busy. Some days it seems as though the work will never be finished, but that is because animal care is ongoing – day in and day out. I work in a mid-size zoo in a big city, and we have an outstanding collection of animals who are demanding in terms of their feeding, keeping their space clean and presentable, ensuring their health and safety, and making their daily living environment as close to nature as possible. It is true that zoos once were just a jumble of cages to hold animals. But over the years the importance of their habitats has been studied by scientists and naturalists linking their behavior and interaction with their environment. Today’s zoo is as close to the wild as possible. Their surroundings including plants, pools and landscapes are specifically designed to mirror their habitats. My main work is with the primates. The monkeys and apes are fascinating creatures and I enjoy working with them. My day starts about 7:30 when I make my rounds to see all my charges and ensure that they look healthy, are behaving normally, and their space has not been disturbed in any way. Even though there is overnight staff, this first check in the morning is very important because it sets a pattern for the rest of the day and allows me to deal with any problems right away. Then it’s feeding time and checking on their diets so that any additional foods and/or supplements are available. After that, the exhibits need to be cleaned and everyone made presentable for the public by 10 am. There are several feedings a day, and the exhibits are cleaned again at the end of the day or sooner if necessary. Areas in the back of cages and habitats must be cleaned at the end of the day, and everything prepared for tomorrow. I also write detailed reports on each animal every day as this ensures the check on their care, health and safety. My work goes on whether it is miserably hot or unbearably cold. Our work does not stop for weather, weekends or holidays. We had well over a million visitors last year, and part of my job is 16

to interact with the public and answer questions. I have also taken some of the smaller monkeys to schools for educational talks. It is so important to make young people aware of the environment and how its quality not only impacts humans, but the welfare of animals as well. I grew up with two dogs and several cats. I learned to ride a horse when I was 10 years old. I have always loved animals and wanted to be around them. As a junior in high school, I began volunteering on weekends at this zoo where I now work. I have a degree in wildlife biology and I have studied animal behavior. I hope to be doing this for a long time. Eventually, I would like to move into management. Working with animals is a rewarding experience, and I feel as though I am part of an important crusade in preservation and conservation.”

I‘m in a Zoo Intern Program “I love animals and I love the outdoors, but I was not sure how to combine these into a future. I have worked for the park district and have been a camp counselor, and even spent a summer on a working ranch. I was in my first year of college taking liberal arts courses when I visited a zoo in the city and met another student there I knew who had been accepted in their 12-week intern program. He was working in a tropic setting that replicates a rainforest system housing a wide variety of species. He was very excited about the prospect of a future in zoos. I was mesmerized by the experience and decided to look into this intern program. After talking with my family and advisors, I switched my curriculum to biology and science. I could not apply for the program until I had two years of college and then it was so competitive that I was not sure I would get in. My B+ grade average proved to be the clincher and here I am in the third week of my 12-week internship. I asked to take my internship at the children’s zoo which offers a great dual opportunity for working hands on with a variety of native and domestic animals and lots of interaction with children and adults. Zoo keeping skills are essentially the same at the children’s zoo as they are in the main zoo. There is a daily 17

routine to follow. At this early juncture in my training, I am mainly assisting the keepers in their work. Every day I get to do a little more and in a few more weeks I should have specific duties to handle by myself. I work a five-day, 40-hour week and do not get paid. This is voluntary but I feel it’s necessary if I want to consider a future at a zoo. In fact, there is a waiting list of students wanting to become interns. The minimum commitment is six weeks, but I felt that was not long enough to determine if I want to pursue this field. Part-time work over the years and support from my parents allows me to take this much time. The intern program is a training and educational program, and trainees are supervised by full-time employees. A mentor is assigned to an intern, and this professional helps provide the needed information on zoo policies, procedures and standards. In other words, there is always someone there to ensure that I do not make any serious mistakes. At the end of 12 weeks, I will receive a formal written evaluation from my mentor and supervisors, which they will discuss with me in an evaluation conference. I will receive a copy of the evaluation along with a certificate of completion of the internship program. I am hoping that at that time I will be sure that a career in this field is the right choice for me. Then when I return to college for my junior and senior years, I can concentrate on a degree with a biology and science major.”

I‘m an Assistant Curator of Fishes “A job in an aquarium was a given ever since I took my first scuba diving lesson as a teenager. I was vacationing with my family in the Florida Keys and was astounded by the life under the water. I was a good swimmer but mostly had been swimming in pools and lakes. The Keys were something else and opened my eyes to the world of the seas. I have an undergraduate degree in marine biology and a master’s degree in fisheries. I am also a certified diver. My first job was with a marine science center where I worked in public education and learned the importance of interaction between 18

the institution and the public. It was good basic experience as I learned about various species, their behavior, their diseases and their routines. I was at the center for almost four years when I applied for an aquarist’s job at the aquarium in our city. I had the right qualifications and was hired. As an aquarist I learned about more species, how to decorate tanks or make recommendations on the particular habitat. Decorating the exhibit to the specifics of the particular region the fish are from is important. We study various plants, reefs, coral and other seascapes so that we can duplicate the collection’s original environment as closely as possible. This is important for the welfare of the animals, as well as for the education of the public. My duties as an aquarist included making rounds and checking on the collection for injuries or any signs of illness, the filtration and life support systems, testing the equipment we use for presentations, preparing the food for the entire day, and getting ready to welcome the public. My particular institution has five feedings a day in each of our tanks and we do presentations for each one. We work with volunteers who help with the feedings and the presentations. After almost six years and several advancements especially in the management area, I was promoted to Assistant Curator of Fishes. In my current position I divide my time between administration and the animals. My mornings are usually spent monitoring my areas, checking on any ongoing problems and making myself available to the aquarists. Afternoons are generally devoted to personnel problems, scheduling, evaluations, checking inventories and ordering supplies. I really like what I do. I am happy working with the fish, participating in educational programs and being part of the conservation movement. So many of our animals are endangered, and it is rewarding to know that I am making a difference.”

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I’m a Curator Of Birds “Becoming a curator has capped a wonderful career in zoos that I began as a teenager. I come from a family of hikers, and weekends and some vacations found us in wonderful areas for hiking and camping out. I learned to appreciate wildlife at an early age and to have respect for the environment. I started volunteering at the zoo when I was still in high school. Exotic birds became my favorite exhibit and soon my favorite subject. I could not absorb enough information about them and knew this was going to be my career. Since then, I have had many years of education including a doctoral degree in ecology and biology. This zoo has one of the more outstanding collections of exotic birds in the country and I am responsible for much of our current exhibit. My travels have taken me to far away places where I select birds that will be compatible with the rest of the collection. I am also concerned about their breeding potential. I pay close attention to endangered species or species with diminishing populations. It is a challenge for me to increase their numbers. Most people do not realize how much wildlife we are losing. Only when you travel to what were once pristine wild areas can you measure how much of the land we have lost to development. Management is a big part of my day as I ensure that my colleagues are on top of all our situations, whether they be serious problems or not. I have a good working relationship with my staff and we are in constant communication. As a senior staff member I attend a lot of meetings both at my institution and at other facilities. But my best and most favorite times are spent checking on the birds in our collection, supervising their shift from cages or habitats, monitoring new births, and controlling their health and safety. Losing an animal is like losing a member of a family. It affects us all. I have earned a decent living although this is not a lucrative field in terms of salaries. But my personal rewards far outpace my monetary compensation. My work is important. I am helping to save a number of species that might have become extinct were it not for zoos. I am promoting understanding through educating 20

the public to the living wonders of this earth. And, most of all, I am happy in my work and can’t wait to return here every day. The work is not easy and the hours can be long, and there are always problems to deal with, but for me it has been worth it. My future may have management duties and even a place in the executive offices. I am not quite sure how I would feel relinquishing my hands-on work with my birds, but my mind is always open to new challenges. If you love all creatures and enjoy communicating with nature, then a career with animals will be a rewarding one.”

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QUALIFICATIONS YOU WILL NEED WORKING IN ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS IS SPECIAL IN TWO VERY IMPORTANT WAYS –

first, you get to work with and care for a variety of local, domestic, exotic and endangered animals and second, you get to work either outside or under water. When considering this field, keep in mind these essential personal qualifications you will need to succeed. A love of animals, science, nature, the environment and being part of the conservation movement A comfort level of working with animals large, small and potentially dangerous A knowledge of general husbandry practices and methods Good computer skills Observational skills in assessing animals and their habitats Strong communication skills; written for all the detailed reporting that is required and, oral for interacting with the public and volunteers as well as with colleagues Strength and stamina to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy objects Good sense of organization to complete daily tasks in a timely fashion and to keep comprehensive and accurate records according to established procedures Patience to work through problems, a commitment to the institution you are serving, and a dedication to education and conservation with the animals and their environment This is a demanding and rewarding career choice. It pits the individual with some of the most magnificent creatures on earth. The health and safety of each animal is in the hands of each professional and a genuine concern for their care is essential as their lives depend largely upon how they are handled. This can be a promising career for those who love animals and nature and desire to make a difference.

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POSITIVE ASPECTS THIS IS AMONG THE MOST GIVING CAREERS. PEOPLE ENTER THIS WORK BECAUSE

they truly love animals and want not only to be around them, but help their breed survive and flourish. It is not a flashy or high-powered field, and it does not pay big salaries, but if you have a desire to help preserve the animals we have left then you are in the right career. You work with people of similar views in places that are interesting and attractive. The zoos and aquariums of today are modern, well-equipped facilities that display their animals in natural habitats. It becomes a fun family-like atmosphere and the illness or death of any member is a sad affair. It is a good feeling to come through a crisis and save a creature or watch the birth of a rare species. In addition to caring for the animals, there is a variety of programs, workshops and special events that bring children, teens and adults to the institution to participate with the zoo employees in a variety of ways, mostly educational and always fun. In addition, you can participate in school programs where selected animals are taken into the classroom and discussed, or a class comes to the zoo and a keeper or curator will guide them through a particular exhibit. Zoos and aquariums are places where animal health is enhanced and endangered species are nurtured. They are beacons of light in a world that too often cares more for roads and buildings than it does for nature.

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NEGATIVE ASPECTS THE BIGGEST COMPLAINT IS THE LOW PAY. KEEPERS, AQUARISTS AND CURATORS

are all required to have degrees, and for curators a graduate degree is necessary. The institutions are nonprofit and have never been able to afford high salaries. The majority of zoos and aquariums have annual budgets under $5 million and that just covers the essentials. So be forewarned, if you are looking to make a lot of money, this is not the career for you. While no two days are the same, there are routine duties that must be performed on a daily basis, 365 days a year, such as feeding and cleaning, and they must be done in all kinds of weather. Blistering heat or freezing cold is no excuse not to be out doing your daily chores. During very bad weather or storms most of the animals are brought inside, but creatures like seals stay in their pools and keepers must go out and feed them. Dealing with the public can be frustrating as they ignore signs like Do Not Feed the Animals, or let small children run wild and get into restricted areas. Watching the animals is one thing, but watching out for unruly children should not be your problem. It just adds to the stress of the work. Lifting heavy bags of food or materials can be backbreaking. Detailed daily reports are a necessary evil and must be completed whether your day has ended or not. Often you work more hours than you are paid for. There is too much to do and too much to learn.

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EDUCATION AND TRAINING LIKE MOST FIELDS OF ENDEAVOR, CAREERS IN ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS ARE AT A

higher level, and you will be more successful, if you have a college degree. While it is possible to get some entry-level positions at smaller facilities with only a high school diploma, you could find yourself trapped in a dead-end job. Even some science and biology courses at a community college would be a help and then with experience, you could move up to a better job. However, without a degree from an accredited college or university, there is only so far that you can go in pursuing a serious career, and most major institutions will not consider your application with only a high school diploma. A college education not only gives you the science you need, it also gives you organizational skills and time management skills to help you deal with the pressures and problems of the job. A college education translates into better jobs, greater advancement possibilities, and better earnings and benefits. So if you are serious about working with animals in zoos and aquariums, start looking at a science degree program in the school of your choice. The basic majors for this field are biology, marine biology, ecology, and zoology. Many curator positions now require graduate degrees, including a master’s, all the way up to a PhD. There are numerous colleges and universities across the country that have undergraduate and graduate degree programs in these and other related sciences. Just visit your local library or the Internet for a listing in your area or anywhere in the country. For working zoo professionals, there are ongoing training programs, including seminars, workshops, continuing education, interaction with colleagues in other institutions, and association meetings and conferences. If you want to do some first-hand investigation before you make a commitment to this career, volunteer at a zoo or aquarium, a veterinarian’s office, or any facility that cares for animals to view first hand what goes into their care and welfare. The best way to make your decision is to be informed, and it will be up to you to do the leg work. Make sure that your high school grades are up to your potential, and that you have good study habits. All this will go a long way in 25

helping to ensure a successful career in the future. A solid education followed by training and ongoing education will give you the tools you will need to help make your career and your life meaningful.

EARNINGS POTENTIAL ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS ARE MOSTLY NONPROFIT INSTITUTIONS AND RELY ON

government and charitable foundation grants and the generosity of member donors to support their annual budgets. Most of these institutions are small and have annual budgets under $5 million annually. Most do not have large endowments and many have no cash surplus at all. When the economy is down or in recession, donors have less money to give and government funding may be cut. Fundraising becomes difficult during these times and nonprofits lower expenses by paring down staff and eliminating some programs. However, thousands of people continue to work at these institutions and new job openings are posted every day. The many thousands of animals in collections across the country must be cared for in an appropriate manner and no institution will put their animals in jeopardy with an inadequate staff. Salary levels are based on education and experience, plus the size of the institution, its location, and job descriptions and responsibilities, which vary from place to place. Entry-levels in the keeper and aquarist positions can start as low as $20,000 and go to about $25,000. More senior positions start about $20,000 and go to about $45,000. Entry-levels for curator, with an advanced degree can start at $40,000 with more senior positions rising to about $60,000, or somewhat higher at major institutions. While salary alone should never dictate your career choice, it is important to place your earnings potential in proper perspective with your future.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WHEN THE ECONOMY IS IN A DOWNTURN AND MONEY IS TIGHT, NONPROFITS ARE

the first to feel the pinch. Downsizing at these institutions usually does not include the hands-on animal professionals. The majority of layoffs when they are required, are in office jobs and management areas. If you want a hands-on career with animals, there will always be work. In addition to zoos and aquariums, there are wildlife parks, specialized zoos, aquatic parks, circuses, petting and farm zoos, animal shelters, wildlife refuges and more. There are zoos of all sizes in many cities across the country. Not as many aquariums, but a trip to your local library or a search on the Internet will provide their locations. The Internet Web site for American Zoo and Aquarium Association www.aza.org has a listing and location of their member institutions. To give you an idea of typical job openings, here is a sampling of available positions across the country listed with the AZA in one recent week: Reptile/Amphibian Keeper, Mystic Aquarium, Connecticut Zoo Keeper/Elephants, Chehaw Wild Animal Park, Georgia Zoo Curator, Los Angeles Zoo, California Curator of Aquatic Life, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Pennsylvania Animal Keeper, Henry Doorly Zoo, Nebraska Education Curator, Lake Superior Zoo, Minnesota Gorilla Forest Supervisor, Louisville, Zoological Gardens, Kentucky Bird Keeper, Houston Zoological Gardens, Texas Elephant Manager, Virginia Zoological Park, Virginia Conservation Education Internship, Racine Zoological Gardens, Wisconsin Zoo Keeper/Birds, New Orleans Audubon Zoo, Louisiana Curator of Husbandry, Akron Zoo, Ohio Zoo Keeper, North Carolina Zoo, North Carolina Mammal Keeper, Jacksonville Zoological Gardens, Florida General Curator, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Washington Life Support Systems Technician, Oregon Coast Aquarium Assistant Lead Keeper, Brookfield Zoo, Illinois 27

Diver Coordinator, Colorado’s Ocean Journey, Colorado Educator, Bergen County Zoo, New Jersey Zoo Exhibits Coordinator, Zoo New England, Massachusetts

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR FUTURE IF YOU ARE AN ANIMAL PERSON AND WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS

career, here are some avenues to pursue: Read The only way to get to know a subject is by immersing yourself in it and that means going to the library and taking out books on animals in general, animal care, animal history, different species such as primates or whales. Call your local zoo, aquarium, or animal shelter and ask them for reading recommendations. When you begin to learn about the subject, then you can start asking the right questions. Research Make a list of the questions you want answered and talk with people in the field, write to colleges and universities about their science and other related degree programs, visit Web sites on animals, write to the professional association and ask them to send you any free publications. Interact Invite a professional from a zoo, aquarium or other animal facility to talk to your class or a school assembly about their career. Make an appointment with one or two professionals at an animal facility and visit them armed with questions about their job. Make sure you ask about the negatives as well as the positives. Talk to your school guidance/career counselor and family about your interest in this career. Volunteer You may wind up with good answers to your questions, but missing is the actual experience. The only way to see first-hand what goes on at an animal facility is to be there – and that usually means volunteering. You are not only helping the institution, but you are solidifying your feelings about this career. In fact, weekends are a good time to volunteer because that is when the most people visit and the duties of the professionals can be twice as hectic. Once again from Ms. Croke’s book, The Modern Ark, “No one knows exactly what the zoo of the future will look like. But with so much at stake, it is clear we desperately need zoos to help save the diversity of life. The question is not whether the world will have zoos in the future; the question is: Will the world have animals?” Do you want to help? Be a part of the solution? Contribute to a better world? This giving, rewarding career is for you. Good Luck! 28

ASSOCIATIONS American Association of Zoo Keepers www.aazk.org American Association of Zoo Veterinarians www.aazv.org American Society of Primatologists www.asp.org American Zoo and Aquarium Association www.aza.org The Association of Zoological Horticulture www.azh.org The Audubon Society www.audubon.org Center for Ecosystem Survival www.savenature.org The Conservation Breeding Specialist Group www.cbsg.org Earthwatch Institute www.earthwatch.org Elephant Managers Association www.wildlifesafari.org/ema Feline Conservation Center www.cathouse-fcc.org Humane Society of the United States www.hsus.org International Crane Foundation www.savingcranes.org 29

International Marine Animal Trainers Association www.imata.org International Rhino Foundation www.rhinos-irf.org Marine Biology Learning Center www.marinebiology.org The Sierra Club www.sierraclub.org Society for Ecological Restoration www.ser.org US Fish & Wildlife Service www.fws.gov Wildlife Conservation Society www.wcs.org World Wildlife Fund www.wwf.org

PERIODICALS All of the above associations have their own special publications including magazines, newsletters, articles, etc. Check their Web sites or the periodical section in your local library. Write them asking for any free information.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Institute For Career Research CHICAGO CAREERS INTERNET DATABASE www.careers-internet.org

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