Where would I go if I could go across seas? I’d be in search of castle on a wide open plain. I’d walk the halls of kings and queens and climb the towers of royalty. I’d wonder what it’d be like to sit on their thrones. But then, I’d survey the ramparts and marvel atContinue reading “Where Would I Go?”
Category Archives: Animals
We Are Our Animals
Which animal would you compare yourself to and why? A fun thing about zoo keepers is that each person has their preferences when it comes to the animals they take care of. Some keepers prefer primates, some prefer hoofstock, or carnivores, or birds. I’m a big felid/carnivore keeper, myself. In meeting these different types ofContinue reading “We Are Our Animals”
The Pounce
What is something simple that gives you inexplicable joy? For me, it’s a cat’s pounce. Domestic, exotic, big or small, it doesn’t matter. Something about a cat about to pounce makes me smile and start giggling. I have to cover my mouth to stay silent. Take my kitten, for example. She loves her wand toyContinue reading “The Pounce”
Daisies in the Grass
In a far corner of a zoo along, a long gravel road riddled with potholes, you find yourself at a few African bomas. They’re just simple, round buildings lined with sticks, but they keep the animals safe when not on exhibit. There’s five buildings in total–though you wouldn’t think them as such. Each has theirContinue reading “Daisies in the Grass”
You’re So Lucky
When you go to parties or catch up with old friends, one of the questions that gets asked is “What are you up to these days?” People usually talk about their jobs, and that can lead to a question along the lines of do you enjoy what you do? I’m a zookeeper. When I bringContinue reading “You’re So Lucky”
Don’t Be a Zookeeper if…
Helmeted Guinea Fowl
It’s a turkey! Look at that chicken! Quite common misperceptions about this little bird. I’ve lost count of how many times someone has looked at our guinea fowl in our walkthrough aviary and called it a chicken or a turkey. This spotted bird lives in Africa. They’re very chicken-like with the scratching and pecking theyContinue reading “Helmeted Guinea Fowl”
Teveta Golden Weaver
No matter where you are, you get used to seeing native birds. I can name off a bunch of birds that I see living in the wild around my house and at my workplace. Sometimes, you forget to consider that a native bird to you is something exotic to someone else. It’s no secret thatContinue reading “Teveta Golden Weaver”
Morning at the Zoo
Walking the chimp exhibitMaking sure they can’t escapeAs dawn breathes on the horizonAnd morning starts to break Wind rustles the treesAnd squirrels scatter undergrowthBut off in the distanceMake sure you listen real close Noble roars take the airAs the lions announce their presenceThey need to make sure all know:On these acres, they take precedence TheContinue reading “Morning at the Zoo”
Rhinoceros Iguanas
Down in the Caribbean there are a few islands that are the home to the rhinoceros iguana. These little reptiles have a lifespan of about 20 years. They can get up to 53 inches long and 20 pounds, and they’re endangered. These iguanas live in rocky limestone environments like tropical dry forests, lowland shrubs, andContinue reading “Rhinoceros Iguanas”
nikki diekemper 