What makes life in a zoo better for animals? Being able to make their own choices and bonding with individuals who care for them. In this episode we meet a warm and joyous zookeeper whose job it was among other things, to prepare crocodiles for their regular medical exams. Crocodiles, who can learn their own names, and will come when called are not only the first species you think of when you talk about “animal intuition” – but how do they know it is time for once every two-year medical exam? Learn how they knew from what shirt the zookeeper was wearing they could predict what was coming that day. What makes them suddenly disappear when it is time for a blood test? Learn all about Albert Ferraro’s experiences with these and other zoo animals, including exotic Tapers with personalities and affection, and Siamang monkeys who delighted with a handheld mirror and other joyful tales about how bonding with one special human can make
Responsible for daily husbandry practices and care for all species of the Zoo’s Rainforest Revealed loop consisting of New World primates, Baird’s tapir, giant river otter, sloth, various avian species, giant anteater, jaguar, coati, and several reptiles. Became adept at working with animals residing in multiple habitats connected by intricate tunnel systems. Notable accomplishments include the planning and coordination of introductions between 1.1 Baird’s tapir multiple times, proposal and construction of various enrichment devices to improve animal welfare, proposal and implementation of a protected contact stall guard for training of 1.0 Baird’s tapir living in quarantine space, involvement in animal medical procedures, primary trainer of 1.1 Baird’s tapirs, assisting in multiple large scale coordinated projects, and involvement of initial care team for 1.0 Baird’s tapir calf. Worked to develop larger roles in the Zoo overall. Such roles include being cross trained as a backup for venomous snake handling and night security. Asked on multiple occasions to assist the Zoo’s Philanthropy Department with engaging donors and members for several tours and after evening events. In 2020 took over role of Animal Department representative for the Zoo’s Safety Committee. As a member of this committee tasked with attending monthly meetings, gathering and presenting any concerns brought by animal staff members, providing post meeting updates to the Animal Department, the coordination and distribution of monthly safety inspection packets, and coordinating and scheduling the Zoo-wide yearly fire extinguisher inspections along with escorting the inspectors through all Animal Department areas in a timely and professional manner. As Keeper III responsible for training new zookeepers and acting as the point person for Rainforest in the absence of the Area Supervisor.
