If you love taking care of animals and you are interested in their welfare, then a job in the zoo may just be the career path you wish to choose.
Do you have a genuine love of animals and are interested in their welfare and in conservation? Then a job in the zoo may just be the career path you wish to choose. As a keeper you would be looking after animals in the zoo so you need to be fit, healthy and enjoy being active. You will also need lots of patience and confidence Zoo Animals.
The zoo may want you to provide evidence of five good GCSE qualifications and possibly one A level. However this is not always the case and some zoos may be happy to employ you with less. You may want to study for a certificate in zoo animal care, behaviour and welfare which covers topics such as psychology, enrichment, welfare and conservation. It also deals with keeper-animal interactions and effective and humane animal handling and restraint. You may need a driving license if you intend to extend your work to wildlife parks.
Most zoos will want you to have had some experience of working with animals. There are many volunteer schemes available to you in this field and they are very popular so you may have to go on a waiting list. You should research the opportunities at different zoos and wildlife parks on the Internet. There may also be an opening for you through an Apprenticeship scheme, so check what is available in your area.
New keepers will be given on the job training for about six months with an experienced keeper. After this probationary period there will be a follow up two year course leading to an Advanced Certificate in the Management of Zoo animals. This involves the learning of enclosure design, health and safety issues, restraint and transportation of animals and conservation and disease. You will also be encouraged to study for a foundation degree and this could lead to a postgraduate award.
To become a good zookeeper you will need to have a strong desire to work with the animals and possess the stamina and fitness to do so. You will have to be strong and patient with good observation skills and will also require communication and people skills as you will be working with the public on a daily basis. You will need to be very aware of health and safety issues and will need to keep the premises free of any waste that could become a health hazard. Ensure the zoo has contacts with companies such as rubbish removals Pinner to keep it in immaculate condition.
In larger zoos you may be able to progress from your position as keeper to that of head keeper. If there are not the opportunities for you to do so in a smaller zoo, you may wish to consider moving to gain further experience. With extra skills and practice you could become a curator.