People like to observe wild animals, but caring for them can be a hassle. Zookeepers care for and monitor animals located at zoos. They clean pens, monitor animals’ health, and feed them.
Zookeepers observe animals to determine if they are ill or injured. Keepers must pay close attention to behavioral changes. Keepers document problems and notify vets if animals need medical care.
Some zoo keepers provide animals with toys or objects to entertain them. Certain animals are entertained by sprinklers, logs, and other objects. Zoo keepers frequently hide food for animals to locate. This helps them remain active in their pens.
Occasionally, keepers train animals, so it is not as difficult caring for them. Keepers teach elephants to lift their feet, making it possible for veterinarians to examine them.
Zoo keepers also educate zoo patrons about animals. Keepers answer questions and prepare exhibits.
People who enjoy animals sometimes try to make a career out of it. Keepers enjoy associating with the animals. Additionally, they enjoy conducting research, and they appreciate opportunities to protect endangered animals.
However, working as a zoo keeper can be messy. Keepers are required to clean pens, and they frequently work in poor weather. They occasionally haul heavy food containers. They frequently work during weekends and holidays caring for and feeding animals.
It can also be a hazardous job since wild animals are unpredictable. In most cases, keepers never touch or horse around with animals.
How do you prepare for this career?
Many keepers attend college. They usually major in zoology, biology, or other biological sciences. They must also be able to do math since they have to feed animals proper portions of food. Zoo keepers should also acquire effective verbal and written communication skills since they keep notes and prepare public presentations.
Keepers should also acquire animal care experience. Before getting hired at a zoo, many zoo keepers gain experience at vet clinics, pet stores, or ranches. While working in these locations, they clean pens, assist with animal care, and feed animals.
Acquiring experience at a zoo is also helpful. Many zoo keepers begin their careers volunteering at zoos.
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How much will I earn?
During 2008, 50 percent of animal caretakers employed by zoos made $10.75 or more per hours while 50 percent made less money per hour. 50 percent of animal trainers working at zoos made $11.89 or more per hour while another 50 percent made less.
How many jobs are there?
During 2008, nearly 200,000 animal care specialists were employed. A small percentage of these specialists were employed by zoos. Some animal care specialists were employed by animal health clinics or kennels. Others could be found at circuses, amusement parks, pet stores, grooming centers, stalls, or animal shelters.
What is the future outlook for this career?
Job growth for animal care specialists is projected to increase quicker than average growth in other industries through 2016. There will be fewer job opportunities at zoos than other animal care centers.
It is difficult to find a job as a zoo keeper since many people apply to work at zoos.
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