Conservation and Welfare
How zoos make a difference
Most zoos are members of BIAZA – The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums. BIAZA really cares about animal conservation – like looking after endangered species, and showing other zoos around the world the best way to manage the animals in their care.
It was founded in 1966 with the aim of sustaining and protecting the precious biodiversity of animals, plants, habitats and people. Since then it has set up all kinds of exciting conservation and education programmes both here and around the world aimed at helping the Earth’s precious wildlife to flourish and survive. BIAZA sees zoos and aquariums as places to inspire and educate people about their relationship with other living things, and encourage people to behave in ways that help wildlife.
Zoos who are part of BIAZA deliver the highest standards of animal welfare together with excellence in environmental education, scientific research and visitor experience. This means that all the organisations taking part in the Kellogg’s Zookeeper promotion are dedicated to providing the best possible care for the animals within their care and take a leading role in the preservation of endangered species.
Kellogg’s working in partnership with Biaza
Kellogg’s believes that good zoos and aquariums are uniquely placed to educate and inspire people about the value and importance of wildlife and conservation. The Zoos and Aquariums that Kellogg’s are involved with carry out a wide range of global conservation projects and provide a range of educational experience for 850,000 children. Each year 18 million people visit zoos and aquariums, more than the combined attendance at Premier League football matches.
By working with BIAZA and its members, Kellogg’s is able to promote the conservation and educational benefits of the best zoos and aquariums which conform to the most up-to-date standards in animal welfare, conservation and education.
What does it take to be a Zookeeper
A lot of people would love a job looking after animals. But if you’re thinking of becoming a zookeeper, don’t expect it to be easy! A zookeeper’s job is very demanding, often involving long hours and repetitive tasks. The team of zookeepers care for the animals in the zoo, feeding them every day, cleaning out their enclosures, keeping records of health, diet, behaviour and much more.
The work can be quite physical, so you would need to be reasonably fit, and as well as dealing with animals you’ll also have to deal with the general public from time to time. For example, you might be asked to give talks to visiting groups and school parties.
However, for someone with a love of animals it is without doubt one of the most rewarding jobs on the planet!
Do I need special qualifications?
Requirements vary from zoo to zoo, but normally you would need to have five GCSEs, including a natural science. Biology to a high GCSE standard is recommended with maths and English being desirable. Many zookeepers now have a relevant university degree.
Big thanks to Chester Zoo
Kellogg’s would like to extend a special thank you to the zookeepers, staff (and animals!) at Chester Zoo for all their help on this promotion and especially for allowing us behind-the-scenes access to do the Zookeeper Academy videos. If you’re interested in visiting Chester Zoo, their website is www.chesterzoo.org.