Summary:
1. The unique role of a Swing Keeper in the Herpetology/Bird Department at Zoo Atlanta.
2. The transition from working with birds to working with amphibians, reptiles, and birds.
3. Similarities between birds and reptiles and the importance of preventing cross-contamination of diseases.
4. The benefits and challenges of working with a diverse range of species at Zoo Atlanta.
Amphibians, reptiles, and birds may seem like an odd combination of animals to study and care for. Still, at Zoo Atlanta, we embrace these three distinct groups’ unique and fascinating aspects. As a Swing Keeper in the newly established Herpetology/Bird Department, I have the privilege of experiencing the diverse world of these creatures daily.
For the past seven years, my focus at the zoo has been exclusively on birds. I nurtured and cared for these magnificent creatures, tending to their needs in the air. But when the opportunity arose to expand my expertise and venture into amphibians and reptiles, I couldn’t resist the allure of Scaly Slimy Spectacular.
Working with birds had its challenges and rewards, but transitioning to the world of amphibians and reptiles brought a new set of responsibilities. From searching for animals on the ground to adjusting to unconventional feeding schedules, I had to adapt quickly. While birds require daily feedings, amphibians and reptiles often thrive with less frequent meals, sometimes only once a month!
Despite these differences, I discovered surprising similarities between birds and reptiles. One might assume that scales are exclusive to reptiles, but take a closer look at a bird’s feet, and you’ll notice the presence of scales. This shared trait highlights the interconnectedness of these creatures, bridging the gap between two seemingly distinct groups.
Another vital aspect of my role is preventing cross-contamination of diseases between the aviary and herpetology areas. Birds and reptiles share more than scales; they can also share illnesses. To mitigate this risk, I must diligently maintain separate uniforms for each department. No bird clothes in herpetology areas, and no herpetology clothes in bird areas! It may seem like a small inconvenience, but it ensures the health and well-being of the animals entrusted to our care.
My schedule swings between departments as a Swing Keeper, providing much-needed support wherever required. While some might find this constant shift challenging, I relish the opportunity to work with such a diverse range of species each day. Every encounter brings new insights and knowledge, from flamboyant parrots to slithery snakes.
Working with the herpetology and bird populations at Zoo Atlanta has opened my eyes to the wonders of the animal kingdom. I’ve witnessed the incredible agility of a tree frog, seen a chameleon blend seamlessly with its surroundings, and marveled at the remarkable mimicry of birdsong. These encounters have deepened my appreciation for the intricate beauty of nature and reminded me of the importance of conserving these remarkable creatures for future generations.
It’s not just the animals that make my job rewarding; it’s also the visitors who come to the zoo seeking connection and inspiration. We strive to foster a love and understanding of the natural world through educational programs, encounters, and exhibits. Watching a child’s face light up as they learn about a bird’s unique adaptations or witnessing the mesmerizing movement of a snake is a gratifying experience that reminds me of why I chose this profession.
In conclusion, the world of amphibians, reptiles, and birds is captivating. From the depths of a frog’s habitat to the heights of a bird’s flight, these creatures offer countless opportunities for learning, exploration, and appreciation. As a Swing Keeper in the Herpetology/Bird Department, I am fortunate to be immersed in this world, caring for and advocating for these extraordinary animals. Whether it’s preventing disease, nurturing diverse species, or inspiring visitors, my role is filled with the joy and honor of being part of something greater than myself – protecting and celebrating the wonders of nature.
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Source Description
Amphibians, reptiles, and birds! Oh my! Earlier this year, Zoo Atlanta created their first Herpetology/Bird Department Swing Keeper role, and I was lucky enough to land the position. Being a Swing Keeper means you “swing” between departments so that both areas get the little extra help they need during the week.
For the past seven years, I have worked solely with Zoo Atlanta’s bird population, so moving over to Scaly Slimy Spectacular was a bit of a change. I went from caring for animals in the air to looking for them on the ground. From feeding animals that require food twice a day to ones that get fed a few times a week, if not once a month!
However, despite their differences, there are some similarities as well: Both have scales (yes, birds have scales! Take a closer look at their feet!), and both lay eggs (well, most of them do anyway). One more thing that birds and reptiles share is something I must be very aware of as I move between areas: cross-contamination of diseases. Since birds and reptiles are so similar in many ways, they can also share illnesses. To help combat this, I have two sets of uniforms, two sets of hats, and two sets of shoes, one set for each area. No bird clothes in herpetology areas, and no herpetology clothes in bird areas! This means I have to do a little more laundry over my weekend than most animal care professionals do, but I think it is more than worth it to work with such a large variety of species every day at Zoo Atlanta.
Katherine B.
Swing Keeper, Herpetology and Birds
