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Want to Be a Zookeeper? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Leon Foster

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Zookeepers play a vital role in the care and welfare of animals in zoos and other wildlife facilities. They provide food, water, shelter, and enrichment activities for the animals, and they also monitor the animals' health and well-being. Zookeepers also educate the public about animals and conservation issues.

I Want To Be A Zookeeper

by Patricia Hubbell

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If you're interested in a career as a zookeeper, there are a few things you should know. First, you'll need to have a strong interest in animals and a commitment to their well-being. You'll also need to be physically fit and able to work long hours, often in hot or cold weather. Additionally, you'll need to have good communication and interpersonal skills, as you'll be working with a variety of people, including other zookeepers, veterinarians, and the public.

Education and Experience Requirements

Most zookeepers have a bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, or a related field. However, some zookeepers may have a high school diploma or GED and have gained experience working with animals in other settings, such as animal shelters or wildlife rehabilitation centers.

In addition to formal education, zookeepers typically need to have several years of experience working with animals. This experience can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or paid positions at zoos or other animal care facilities.

Job Duties

Zookeepers have a variety of job duties, including:

Feeding and watering animals
Cleaning animal enclosures
Monitoring animal health and well-being
Providing enrichment activities for animals
Educating the public about animals and conservation issues
Assisting with veterinary procedures
Maintaining animal records

Salary Expectations

The salary for zookeepers varies depending on their experience, education, and location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for zookeepers was $30,010 in May 2020. However, the top 10% of earners made more than $48,910, while the bottom 10% earned less than $20,990.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for zookeepers is expected to be good over the next few years. The increasing popularity of zoos and other wildlife facilities is expected to create more demand for zookeepers. Additionally, the need to replace retiring zookeepers will also create job openings.

If you're interested in a career as a zookeeper, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself:

Get a good education. A bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, or a related field is the best way to prepare for a career as a zookeeper.
Gain experience working with animals. Internships, volunteer work, or paid positions at zoos or other animal care facilities can give you the experience you need to be a successful zookeeper.
Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills. Zookeepers work with a variety of people, including other zookeepers, veterinarians, and the public, so it's important to have good communication and interpersonal skills.

With the right education, experience, and skills, you can have a rewarding career as a zookeeper.