What are the dangers of being a zookeeper?

What are the dangers of being a zookeeper? Health and Safety Risks Even an otherwise docile animal may lash out viciously if ill or injured. Serious injuries at petting zoos are less common, but zookeeper and visitors may come down with a serious, life-threatening illness from handling animals or touching fences and railings.

Is zookeeper a fun job?

There is always something new to learn when working with animals, and many zookeepers find that the job is intellectually stimulating. Zookeepers often have the opportunity to work with a variety of different animals, which can be a pro for those who enjoy variety in their work.

Do zookeepers get paid well?

A Zookeeper in your area makes on average $19 per hour, or $0.71 (39.179%) more than the national average hourly salary of $18.01. California ranks number 19 out of 50 states nationwide for Zookeeper salaries.

How many animals were killed in zoos?

Throughout the ensuing global outcry, questions were asked about how widespread the practice of killing healthy animals is in zoos. Opinions and reports ranged wildly, with disputed industry estimates reporting that between 3,000 and 5,000 healthy animals are killed across European zoos every year.

Do zookeepers get time off?

Most zookeeping positions do not follow a regular Monday through Friday workweek – working days usually include weekends. At Woodland Park Zoo, zookeeping positions offer competitive benefits such as sick leave, holidays, vacation time, pension plans and medical, dental and optical plans.

How can you be safe at the zoo?

For your safety, do not approach or feed the animals that wander freely around the Zoo. If you ever see a person in immediate danger, contact Zoo staff immediately. DO NOT TAKE RISKS IN ANIMAL EXHIBITS. Never attempt a rescue when dangerous animals are involved.

Are zoo keepers happy?

The personal and professional satisfaction that zoo keepers find in their jobs varies from person to person. Most zoo keepers have a deep and lifelong love for animals and really enjoy providing for their day-to-day care.

How much money do zoos spend a year?

How much money do zoos spend on animals every year? Depending on the size of the facility and the number of animals in their care, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums can spend between $500,000 and $20 million (or more) on animals every year. At AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, funds aren't just spent on animal care.

Is being a zookeeper stressful?

Being a zookeeper can be physically and emotionally demanding. Zookeepers are at risk of getting bitten, kicked or otherwise injured when handling or restraining animals. They might have to manage stressful or difficult situations such as animals becoming injured, sick or euthanized.

How many zoo accidents are there?

In the past 26 years, there have been 256 injuries from animal attacks at accredited and non-accredited zoos, menageries and wild animal parks in the U.S., according to a searchable database developed by the animal advocacy group Born Free. Thirty-three victims died from their injuries.

What are some hazards in a zoo?

Do zoos save injured animals?

Zoos and aquariums also often rehabilitate injured animals, and then release them into the wild.