Page 10 - Ratel 2023 Summer

Ratel volume 50, issue number 2

ABWAK Interview Grant.
Association of British and Irish
Wild Animal Keepers
REVIEW By Hannah Sinclaire

I began my career in the zoo industry in 2019, most
recently working as a casual animal keeper at Reaseheath
Mini Zoo whilst completing my BSc in Zoo Management.
Along the way I have had the privilege to work with some
fantastic species - and keepers alike. I have developed
particular interests in zoo animal training and behaviour,
and have a fondness for South American fauna from
having the opportunity to gain in situ experience in a
wildlife rehabilitation centre in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

I have been keen to take the next steps toward a full-time
career within the zoo industry and I am delighted to have
been offered a full-time zookeeping position at Amazona
Zoo, Cromer. Using the ABWAK Interview Grant, I was
able to fund the travel expenses to attend my interview -
which, as a student, was a big help! The grant was extremely
valuable in enabling me to progress into my first full-time
zookeeping position - something I have worked hard for
over the last few years.

Although I will be sad to say goodbye to Reaseheath Mini
Zoo, a place where I have developed exceptionally as a
keeper, I am excited to work with new and familiar species
- as well as a wonderful keeping team. In the future, I hope
to further my experience in animal training and enrichment
as well as get involved in the zoo community more broadly.

Association of British and Irish ABWAK Lemur Workshop.
Wild Animal Keepers
REVIEW By Elizabeth Hanson

I had the opportunity to attend a Lemur Workshop organized
by ABWAK and hosted by Chester Zoo. What made this
experience particularly memorable for me was the generous
grant I received from ABWAK, for which I was greatly
appreciative.

One of the standout aspects of the workshop was the
comprehensive discussion on lemur diets. The insights shared
during this talk were not only fascinating but also crucial for all
those involved in preparing captive lemur diets for
understanding their different nutritional needs.
I particularly enjoyed a presentation focusing on the Coquerel's
sifaka. The delegation learnt about their behaviour, habitat and
the challenges they face both in the wild and in captivity.

Another highlight of the workshop was the talk about in situ
conservation efforts in Madagascar. It was really inspiring to
hear from the the keepers at Chester Zoo who were fortunate
enough to have the opportunity to embark on an incredible
trip to Madagascar as part of their conservation work. Their
firsthand experiences and stories of working in the field were
not only eye-opening but also illustrated the critical importance
of preserving Madagascar's unique ecosystems.
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