it is defintly a labor of love, and not really compatible with a "traditional" family lifestyle. That said, I loved beign a zookeeper and were I single and where I was back then, I might still be doing it. You do need a degree (Animal Science or Zoology is probably ideal, but Bio is also common) and the pay is extremely low, especially since many zoos are located in metropolitan areas with super high costs of living. Hours are pretty regular (get in by 7 at the latest so animals and exhibits are prepped and cleaned by the time the public arrives and out by around 6ish - depending on when the zoo closes to the public and how many animals you need to put back in their holding/indoor pens and feed at night) Days are not rregular though in most zoos - you usually get two days off a week but they will vary from week to week so no one always has to work all weekend, etc. You will also have to work any and all holidays according to the same varying schedule. Pay is extremely low in the profession - starting at about 18K in major cities and topping out (e..g by the end of you career) in the 30's. I hope this gives you some info. Check out the AZA's website for lots more information.
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The Classroom Zoo is...
1:2 leopard geckos, R.I.P. Rosie
1:1(gravid) African Fat Tail Geckos
1:0 Jackson's Chameleon
1:0 Veiled Chameleon
1:1 Bearded Dragons
0:1 Florida Kingsnake
0:1 White's Tree Frog
Hairless Mice, Roaches, Mealies, and Supers...

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