If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to care for animals in a zoo, you’re not alone. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is an organization dedicated to the conservation of animals and their habitats. ZSL operates two zoos in London, the London Zoo and the Whipsnade Zoo, which together are home to over 20,000 animals. A typical day for a ZSL keeper involves a lot of hard work and dedication to the animals under their care. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what it takes to be a ZSL keeper, and what their daily routine looks like.
What is the Zoological Society of London?
The Zoological Society of London, also known as ZSL, is a charity organization founded in 1826 with a mission to conserve animals and their habitats. ZSL operates two zoos in London, the London Zoo and the Whipsnade Zoo, as well as other conservation projects around the world. The organization is dedicated to scientific research, education, and public engagement to help protect wildlife and their habitats.
The role of a ZSL Keeper
A ZSL keeper is responsible for the care and welfare of the animals under their supervision. Keepers work with a wide range of animals, from small insects to large mammals. They are responsible for providing food, water, shelter, and medical care to the animals, as well as maintaining their enclosures and providing enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated.
Daily routine of a ZSL Keeper
A typical day for a ZSL keeper starts early in the morning. Keepers begin by checking on the animals under their care to ensure they are healthy and safe. They then move on to cleaning and maintaining the animal enclosures. This involves removing any waste, providing fresh water and food, and ensuring that the animals have a clean and safe environment.
Feeding the animals
Feeding the animals is an important part of a keeper’s daily routine. Keepers must ensure that each animal is receiving the appropriate diet and that they are eating enough to maintain their health. Some animals have specific dietary requirements, and keepers must be knowledgeable about each animal’s needs.
Cleaning and maintaining enclosures
Keeping the animal enclosures clean and well-maintained is essential for the health and well-being of the animals. Keepers must remove any waste and debris from the enclosures, provide fresh bedding, and make repairs as necessary. They must also monitor the temperature and humidity levels in the enclosures to ensure that the animals are comfortable.
Animal health and welfare
The health and welfare of the animals is the top priority for ZSL keepers. Keepers must monitor the animals for any signs of illness or injury and provide medical care as necessary. They also work closely with the veterinary team to ensure that the animals are receiving the best possible care.
Enrichment and training
Providing enrichment activities for the animals is an important part of a keeper’s job. Enrichment activities are designed to keep the animals mentally stimulated and engaged, which can help improve their overall health and well-being. Keepers may use a variety of methods, such as providing toys, puzzles, or other objects for the animals to interact with, or training them to perform certain behaviors. Training is also an important part of animal care, as it allows keepers to work closely with the animals to monitor their health, administer medication, and perform other necessary tasks.
Working with the public
Another important aspect of a ZSL keeper’s job is working with the public. Keepers may give talks or presentations about the animals under their care, answer questions, and provide information about conservation efforts. They also work to ensure that visitors to the zoo are following safety rules and regulations, and that they are respecting the animals and their enclosures.
Challenges of the job
Being a ZSL keeper is a challenging job that requires a lot of physical and mental stamina. Keepers may work long hours, often starting early in the morning and ending late in the evening. They may also work in all kinds of weather conditions, from scorching heat to freezing cold. The job can also be emotionally challenging, as keepers may form close bonds with the animals under their care and may have to deal with difficult situations, such as illness or injury.
Qualifications and skills required
To become a ZSL keeper, you typically need a degree in a related field, such as zoology, animal behavior, or animal science. However, experience working with animals may also be considered in lieu of a degree. Keepers must have a strong knowledge of animal behavior, nutrition, and welfare, as well as good communication and interpersonal skills.
Job outlook and salary
The job outlook for ZSL keepers is positive, with a steady demand for skilled professionals in this field. The salary for a ZSL keeper varies depending on experience and location, but typically ranges from £18,000 to £25,000 per year.
Conclusion
Being a ZSL keeper is a challenging and rewarding job that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Keepers are responsible for the care and welfare of a wide range of animals, and must be knowledgeable about each animal’s specific needs. If you’re interested in a career in animal care and conservation, becoming a ZSL keeper may be a great option for you.
