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Summary of Transcript:
The video features Kealie Castellano, a zoologist at Dallas Zoo, who has a special connection with Gypsy, a sassy elephant. Kealie pursued her career in zoology to educate the public about nature and to foster respect and appreciation for the environment. Kealie started her zoology career at the Honolulu Zoo, and after receiving her bachelor’s degree in natural resources and environmental management, she continued her career at Dallas Zoo in 2019. Kealie’s bond with Gypsy, the elephant, grew stronger during her full-time position, and she even got to train her.
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Summary of Description:
Keali’i C. is a zoologist at the Dallas Zoo who came from Honolulu, Hawaii, to continue his professional growth and pursue his desire to protect animals and educate the public about the natural world. He bonded with Gypsy, a 40-year-old African elephant known for her sassy personality, while interning and has since begun to train her himself. Keali’i and all the Dallas Zoo zoologists are appreciated for their work in engaging people and saving wildlife during National Zookeeper Appreciation Week.
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Growing Connection: How Passionate Zoologists at the Dallas Zoo Cares for Animals
Meet Keali’i and Gypsy, an unlikely but endearing pair at the Dallas Zoo. Keali’i, a zoologist from Hawaii, and Gypsy, a 40-year-old African elephant, share an incredible bond that has only grown through the years. As we celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, let us look closer at how passionate zoologists like Keali’i care for animals and build lasting connections with them.
Finding Passion in Caring for Animals
Keali’i’s love for animals started in childhood, watching Animal Planet and National Geographic documentaries. However, he did not begin his journey as a zoologist immediately. He initially pursued a business and marketing degree but quickly realized it was not for him. Instead, his passion for taking care of animals grew stronger, and he became an intern at the Dallas Zoo to gain more hands-on experience.
During his internship, Keali’i met Gypsy, and their bond was formed. According to Keali’i, Gypsy’s loving and energetic personality captivates him. He became more drawn to Gypsy, and after his internship, he accepted a position as a zoologist to take care of her and other animals at the Dallas Zoo.
Building a Strong Connection
One of the essential elements of being a zoologist is building a strong connection with the animals in their care. Keali’i’s relationship with Gypsy is so deep that he now takes on the responsibility of training her. Although not a common practice, it is a testament to Keali’i’s dedication and connection with Gypsy.
Keali’i takes care of Gypsy as if she was his child because he loves her. Keali’i ensures she gets enough water and food, is not stressed, and has plenty of playtimes. In return, Gypsy trusts Keali’i and responds positively to his care. Their bond is evident in how well they work together.
Appreciating the Work of Zoologists
Zoologists have the crucial role of taking care of animals, protecting their habitats, and educating the public about these creatures. It’s not just about feeding animals and ensuring they are healthy. Zoologists in the Dallas Zoo and many other zoos worldwide work hard to protect wildlife and promote conservation.
As we celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, we thank zoologists like Keali’i for their significant contribution to animal welfare. Their work ensures that animals thrive and their habitats are protected.
Final Thoughts
Keali’i and Gypsy’s connection may be unique, but it highlights the importance of forming strong bonds with the animals in a zoologist’s care. Zoologists have dedicated their lives to making sure that creatures like Gypsy are taken care of, protected, and loved. Their passion for caring for animals ensures we can appreciate them for years to come.
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Source Description
GROWING CONNECTION: Our zoologists come to the Dallas Zoo worldwide for many different reasons, and all share a deep appreciation for the animals in their care.
Meet Keali’i C. and Gypsy!
Keali’i came to the Dallas Zoo from Honolulu, Hawaii, and has always been passionate about animals and the environment. He grew up watching Animal Planet and National Geographic and loved helping raise animals, which fueled his passion. In 2019 he joined the Dallas Zoo team to continue his professional growth and to pursue his desire to protect animals and educate the public about the natural world. He met Gypsy while interning, and their bond has only grown.
Gypsy is one of our African elephants. At 40, she is one of the Zoo’s “Golden Girls” known for her sassy personality. Keali’i says he was drawn to her because of the big, “loving energy” she exudes. In moving to a zoologist position, Keali’i has since begun to train Gypsy, which has only strengthened their connection. We love to see them working and thriving together!
Thank you, Keali’i and all the zoologists at the Dallas Zoo. Happy #NationalZookeeperAppreciationWeek!
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Engaging People & Saving Wildlife
