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So You Want To Be A Zoo Keeper?
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The Role Of Zoos
The role of the modern Zoo is one
of a conservation and educational centre, serving the needs of both animals
and humans.Today's zoos work closely together, operating captive breeding
programmes for animals considered in danger of extinction, maintaining
healthy viable populations should it ever be possible to return them to the
wild.This may not be the case for many generations but could be essential
to the survival of certain species in the future. Zoos have already been
involved in many reintroduction schemes, successfully relocating animals
back into their native habitats. Visiting a zoo can be an education in
itself but good zoos now offer a comprehensive range of educational
facilities allowing them to play a crucial role in informing the public
about the threat facing the worlds wildlife. With wild habitats shrinking
at an alarming rate many animals are coming under intense pressure, some
have already become extinct, even in modern times.The work of today's zoo
has become vitally important, much has already been done but their is still
so much more to do. |
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Why Work In A Zoo?
Animal conservation is a growing
field and zoos are very much at the forefront.When working in a zoo you
become part of a global body of dedicated individuals, caring for various
species of animal, providing for their needs, both physical and mental.You
will also be helping to collect data about the animals in your care,
therefore furthering the world's understanding of its fauna. |
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Qualifications And Training
No specific qualifications are
required for a keeping job, although an interest in biology or natural
sciences is obviously an advantage.Enthusiasm and common sense are two of
the most important attributes a keeper can possess, some knowledge of
animals, and an interest in conservation would also be considered
desirable.A number of colleges now offer courses in Animal Management/Care
from First Diploma up to Higher National Diploma levels.Some of these
include the option to specialise in zoo animal or wildlife management and
lead to BTEC or City and Guilds qualifications.These may provide you with
very useful background information and an advantage when applying for a
position.The National Extension College runs an Animal Management Course
compiled in conjunction with recognised zoological bodies including
ABWAK.Based on both practical and theoretical aspects of zoo keeping, it's
primary aim is to provide trainee keepers with the skills and knowledge
required to care for exotic animals. Pratical training is mainly done
within the workplace, with the experienced keepers often taking
responsibility for training new staff. |
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Getting Started
Work experience from school or
college is often one of the best ways to find out if you are suited to this
type of work.It enables you to get first hand knowledge of the work
involved and also allows the zoo to assess the practical ability of future
applicants.A few collections offer part time and seasonal employment. Any
experience working with animals in some capacity will be an advantage when
applying for a position.Working criteria will vary from zoo to zoo, a
keeper's day can often be a long one and a six day week is not unusual.
Wages are comparatively low but
many collections offer free or subsidised accommodation. The creates
motivation for any keeper has to be a high level of job satisfaction.There
are various ways in which to look for employment in a zoo, one is to write
directly to the personnel officer or zoo manager, your application may then
be kept on file until any suitable vacancies become available.Advertised
vacancies can be found in the ABWAK journal RATEL, the weekly paper Cage
& Aviary Birds, this Web Site and of course local newspapers and Job
Centres.Remember to enclose a stamped addressed envelope when writing to
organisations for information. Many of the larger zoos may also be able to
offer advice on careers in zoos.
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