Summary:
– The Bird Care team at the zoo consists of 15 full-time keepers with over 260 years of experience in avian care.
– They provide specialized care for over 388 individual birds from 83 species.
– The keepers must know the birds’ behaviors, natural histories, and individual personalities to provide the highest quality care.
– They work closely with other teams to further scientific knowledge of bird wellbeing.
– Their efforts are rewarded when they witness the hatching of endangered or extinct-in-the-wild birds at the zoo.
Birds are truly fascinating creatures with colorful feathers, diverse behaviors, and incredible adaptations. Behind the scenes at the zoo, there is a dedicated team of bird keepers who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of these amazing creatures. The Bird Care team, consisting of 15 full-time keepers, boasts an impressive 260 years of collective experience in avian care. With over 388 individual birds from 83 species relying on their expertise, this team plays a vital role in the zoo’s mission to protect and conserve wildlife.
One of the key responsibilities of the bird keepers is to know the behaviors, natural histories, and individual personalities of the birds under their care. This knowledge allows them to provide the highest quality care, ensuring that each bird’s needs are met. Whether it’s the energetic penguins living in Penguin & Puffin Coast or the beautiful Guam kingfishers at the Bird House, the keepers must deeply understand these birds’ unique characteristics.
To maintain the optimal health and well-being of the birds, the keepers also work closely with the Animal Health and Behavior team. By collaborating and sharing their expertise, they can provide the best possible care for the birds. Additionally, the bird keepers often participate in various research projects, working alongside scientists to further scientific knowledge of bird wellbeing. This collaboration between the keepers and researchers helps ensure the long-term conservation of avian species in captivity and the wild.
Contrary to popular belief, there is never a slow season for the bird keepers. Different bird species nest at different times of the year, often requiring extra nesting material and exceptional observation skills. The keepers diligently monitor the birds’ nesting habits and behaviors, ensuring they have everything they need to successfully raise their young. This includes providing the correct diet, suitable nesting materials, and a stimulating environment. Their exceptional observation skills help them identify any potential issues or concerns early on, allowing for prompt intervention and care.
While the day-to-day responsibilities of the bird keepers may be demanding, their hard work pays off when they witness the hatching of endangered or extinct-in-the-wild birds at the zoo. These precious hatchlings represent hope for the future of their species, as they are often part of carefully managed breeding programs aimed at increasing their numbers and eventual release back into the wild. The bird keepers play a crucial role in these programs, providing the specialized care needed to ensure the survival and success of each hatchling.
In conclusion, the Bird Care team at the zoo is a group of dedicated and passionate individuals who work tirelessly to provide the highest level of care for the birds under their watch. With their extensive knowledge of avian behavior and their collaboration with other teams, they contribute to the well-being of the birds in their care and the scientific understanding and conservation efforts of avian species. Their hard work and commitment are truly inspiring, reminding us of the importance of protecting and preserving our natural world and its magnificent creatures.
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Source Description
🦉🐧🦅 The Bird Care team includes 15 full-time keepers and boasts over 260 years of experience in avian care! Over 388 individual birds from 83 species rely on this team for specialized care.
From the penguins living in Penguin & Puffin Coast to the Guam kingfishers at the Bird House, the keepers must know the birds’ behaviors, natural histories, and individual personalities to provide the highest quality care. Their responsibilities include diving in the 45 °F water at Penguin & Puffin Coast for pool maintenance.
By working closely with the Animal Health and Behavior team and various research teams, the keepers can utilize their knowledge of avian care to further scientific knowledge of bird wellbeing. There is never a slow season, as different species of birds nest at different times of the year, often requiring extra nesting material and exceptional observation skills.
All the hard work pays off when the bird care team welcomes the hatches of endangered or extinct-in-the-wild birds at the Zoo!
