Zoo Curator: Main Duties and Responsibilities (01:31)

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Marina Haynes works at the Elmwood Park Zoo. She manages the animal collection, staff, and facility. Each exhibit must be tailored to function properly and maintained.

Zoo Curator: Career Beginnings (01:11)

Haynes discusses transitioning from an art major to animal science. Positions in the zoo combine a love of animals with a desire to educate guests.

Zoo Curator: Keys for Success (01:57)

Curators need patience, persistence, good people skills, flexibility, and a sense of humor. No two days are the same at the zoo. Caring for animals is inherently stressful.

Zoo Curator: Education and Certification Requirements (01:37)

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums usually requires a bachelor's degree. Haynes recommends spending time networking with other zoological facilities. Specialized certifications include egg incubation and animal training.

Zoo Curator: Workplace Atmosphere (02:34)

Keepers love that they get to be outside and in the sun. People who work in the zoo are driven by passion, work long hours, and can develop compassion fatigue. There are no holidays.

Zoo Curator: Advice for Aspiring Pros (01:12)

Volunteer and intern at local zoos or vet clinics. Employers will look for experience with animals.

Zoo Curator: A Day on the Job (03:07)

The morning begins in a huddle with the animal care team, including zookeepers and vets. "J.A.R." means "Just Ain't Right." The rest of the day can vary between finding supplies, planning, troubleshooting, research, and acquisition.

Zoo Curator: Industry Goals and Services (03:40)

Zoos are the voice for the wild, informing the public and empowering individuals to make changes. Haynes wants her facility to become more educational towards conservation efforts. Currently, the planet is in the midst of the sixth mass extinction.

Zoo Curator: Industry Challenges (01:10)

The biggest challenge is answering criticisms from animal rights activist groups, Animals should have a positive existence and be well cared for.

Zoo Curator: Looking at the Future (02:54)

Zoos have shifted towards an emphasis toward conservation and education. Animal trainers are now incorporating positive reinforcement. The next ten years will be focused on sustainability, funding, and long-term goals.