Summary of National Zookeeper Week: Africa Team:
Brevard Zoo is highlighting its Africa team in celebration of National Zookeeper Week. This team of 15 caretakers is responsible for caring for 81 individual animals, including lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, meerkats, and other mammals and birds. The team is split into two areas, the giraffe platform and the behind-the-scenes barn, but they work closely together to coordinate animal movements and training projects. The Africa team has achieved various accomplishments, such as training giraffes and zebras for hoof trims and contributing to rhino artificial insemination research. Despite the challenges of working with animals, the team is adaptable and dedicated to improving animal wellbeing. Brevard Zoo is a not-for-profit organization that relies on community support to continue its animal wellness, education, and conservation programs.
Summary:
1. The Africa team at Brevard Zoo is the largest in the animal department.
2. They care for various animals, including lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and meerkats.
3. The team is split into two areas, the giraffe platform and the behind-the-scenes barn, but they work closely together.
Happy National Zookeeper Week! Today, we are delighted to spotlight the remarkable African team at Brevard Zoo. This team of dedicated professionals is responsible for the care and well-being of some of the kazoo’s largest and most magnificent animals. With a team of 15 and still growing, the Africa team oversees the care of 81 individual animals representing a diverse range of species. When you visit the Expedition Africa loop of the zoo, you’ll have the chance to see lions, giraffes, Southern white rhinos, Grévy’s zebras, meerkats, and other fascinating mammals and birds. It’s a genuine safari adventure right in the heart of the zoo!
One unique aspect of the Africa team is how they are divided into two areas – the guest-facing giraffe platform and the behind-the-scenes barn. Despite this division, these two areas work harmoniously together. Effective communication is critical in coordinating the movement of animals from one area to another and accomplishing tasks like hoof trims for zebras and giraffes. A great deal of teamwork is required to train the giraffe herd for these hoof trims, and it’s exciting to see each giraffe enthusiastically participating!
According to area supervisor Alyssa Simon, the Africa team’s list of accomplishments is timing Mo. Thanks to their dedicated training efforts, most their giraffes and zebras now voluntarily participate in hoof trims. Additionally, their work has contributed significantly to research on rhino artificial insemination through their voluntary ultrasound training program. These achievements showcase the team’s commitment to animal care, well-being, and conservation.
Of course, working with animals in Africa presents its own set of challenges. Alyssa describes each day as a surprise, with no two days being the same. Plans are made, and plans inevitably change, requiring the team to adapt quickly. For instance, it’s not uncommon for rhinos to decide they want to graze until later in the day r for an impala or zebra they’ve been monitoring to finally go into labor after weeks or months of anticipation. Additionally, the team is always open to new ideas and experiments to improve animal well-being, even if it means stepping into uncharted territory.
The African team faces these challenges head-on while successfully managing another often overlooked aspect of their work – cleaning up after their animals. Did you know that a single rhino can deposit up to 50 pounds of dung in one bowel movement? In addition to their other responsibilities, the Africa team is responsible for cleaning up and removing the most significant amount of fecal matter in the zoo! It’s certainly not a glamorous task, but it’s a vital part of their commitment to animal welfare.
As an independent, not-for-profit organization, Brevard Zoo relies on the generous support of individuals like you. Your contributions enable the zoo to continue serving the community, providing essential animal wellness, education, and conservation programs. The Africa team and their colleagues are at the forefront of these programs, ensuring that the animals in their care receive the best possible treatment and that visitors have unforgettable experiences.
In conclusion, the Africa team at Brevard Zoo is truly a force to be reckoned with. Their dedication, expertise, and passion for animal care shine through in their accomplishments and the unique challenges they face eadailySo, the next time you visit the zoo, take a moment to appreciate the incredible work of the Africa team and the impact they have on both the animals and the community. Happy National Zookeeper Week!
