A look into the inner workings of a zoo or aquarium accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Leadership, management, and career details that might interest someone who might be looking for a change or just might be curious about their favorite animal-related facilities!
You might be curious as to what happens to a body when one of our beloved animals in the zoo or aquarium passes away. Today we discuss the various options, no matter how strange, unusual, or scientif…
There are times when someone in our life just needs us to be there for them. It might be in words of affirmation, it might be just a listening ear, it might be just the right questions asked at the r…
Aquariums and zoos make it look so easy to run fabulous events after hours. Fundraisers, parties, weddings, sleepovers... the fun is amplified! Today we discuss the potential impacts of these events …
It might make your palms sweaty and a lump form in your throat, but sometimes a confrontation needs to be had. Fortunately, it can be done in a calm, collected manner that's effective for all involve…
AZA Accredited institutions have numerous methods by which anyone can report animal welfare concerns. It can come from a staff member, volunteer, contractor, or visitors. Anyone is free to let us kno…
It might be subtle in today's day and age, but it's good to keep an eye out for gender bias and their impact on the workplace. Today we discuss ways this sort of bias is important to avoid if you pos…
It's not the most common way for a zoo or aquarium to bring in an animal, but sometimes the circumstances are perfect and a donated animal is the right fit for our institution. There's a lot to consi…
Whether we intend to or not, we're building influence with those around us. Are there ways we can shape the way people interpret our words and actions? Can we use our powers for good? Today we discus…
It's a great job, without a doubt! Let's be honest, though, a career in animal care has its own set of challenges. If you're interested in joining us in one of the coolest jobs in the world, there ar…
When there is a disconnect between the things that we say and the actions we take, it makes quite an impression on those around us. Trust your gut when you have a feeling that an organization or indi…
Aquariums and zoos are often looking for good ways to contribute to sustainable practices and reducing waste. Today we discuss the many ways that our facilities are already looking to make improvemen…
Sure, we have them. It's a good idea to be aware of what they are, when they strike, and how to view things objectively for the good of ourselves, our teams, and our organizations. Today we discuss t…
There's a lot more study and science happening behind the scenes at your favorite aquarium or zoo than you might have guessed! Today we discuss the approach we might use to determine if we're really …
Most of us have regrets and many of us relive the choices that we've made over and over again. Is it a part of life? Sure. Should it be something that we dwell on for long periods of time? I hope not…
In an average zoo or aquarium, there's a lot of time spent preparing for problems. Every once in a while, however, something entirely unexpected happens. Today we discuss how the priorities are set a…
If you've ever worked for a supervisor that had too many direct reports, you probably understand how impactful the organizational structure can be. How many is too many on a team? Does something like…
You can tell when an animal's behavior seems "off." Today we talk about behavior patterns one might see in a zoo or aquarium and how we might categorize or label what is happening. Is it good? Is it …
New resolutions may not work for everyone, but anyone can try and establish a new habit. The new year is a good time to make a clean break and start something interesting, exciting, or fun! It's neve…
Some aquariums and zoos offer a unique opportunity for guests to get up close and personal by feeding some select animals. What goes into these programs and how are they managed? Are there dangers to…
Hearing feedback is one challenge. Asking for it is a rather different problem. Difficult though it may be, it's best to know where you stand, where your work may have drifted off the mark, and what …