Hutchinson Zoo Celebrates National Zookeeper Week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Zoo celebrated National Zookeeper Week by highlighting the dedicated professionals who care for the facility's diverse animal collection, including wildlife rehabilitation keepers and seasonal interns who contribute to daily operations.

The zoo's recognition effort focused on both primary keepers and swing keepers who ensure continuous animal care throughout the week, as well as specialized rehabilitation staff and student interns gaining hands-on experience.

Among the honored staff members are primary keepers Shannon, Melanie, Ella and Jasmine, described as the heart of the zoo's animal care team. The zoo noted that these keepers are divided into care teams, each tailored to the unique needs of residents to ensure optimal care for every animal.

The facility also recognized its swing keepers, Shannon and Jasmine, who provide coverage across different animal care areas. Swing keepers handle diverse responsibilities from feeding birds and caring for reptiles to managing the needs of carnivores and hoofstock.

"Swing keepers are the ultimate team players," the zoo stated, describing them as multi-talented professionals whose ability to switch between different routines helps maintain consistent animal care.

Individual keeper spotlights highlighted specialized expertise across the facility. Bird keeper Molly was recognized for caring for both winged animals and small mammals including ringtails and prairie dogs. Carnivore keeper Becky manages care for otters and foxes while also handling some non-carnivorous animals like beavers. Hoofstock keeper Melanie oversees bison, deer and mini farm herds, and herp keeper Kira provides expert care for amphibians and reptiles while also training dwarf goats and feeding dart frogs.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Heroes

The zoo also honored its wildlife rehabilitation keepers, describing them as "unsung heroes" whose dedication makes a significant difference in rehabilitation efforts.

"These unsung heroes' dedication makes all the difference in our wildlife rehabilitation efforts," the zoo stated. "Day or night, our rehab keepers stay vigilant, ensuring every animal gets the individualized diet and medical care needed for a speedy recovery."

The facility emphasized the comprehensive nature of rehabilitation work, noting that keepers handle everything from major medical procedures to basic care needs.

"From setting broken bones and feeding newborns to administering life-saving treatments, no task is too big or small for these resilient caregivers. They handle it all with finesse and love," zoo officials said.

The zoo highlighted rehabilitation keepers Zury, who cares for a baby opossum, and Jaismon, who tends to a fledgling Mississippi kite, as examples of staff working with native wildlife.

"Every success story is a testament to their dedication. Whether it's a hawk soaring again after an injury or a turtle swimming away, our rehab keepers make hope and healing possible," zoo officials said.

The zoo encouraged public support for the rehabilitation program, asking visitors to consider donations through the gift shop to show appreciation for the keepers' vital work.

Student Interns Recognized

The zoo also celebrated its seasonal interns during the recognition week, praising their contributions to daily operations and future careers in wildlife care.

"Let's give a roaring round of applause to our amazing seasonal zoo interns," the zoo posted. "It wouldn't be zookeeper week without a special shout out to these new keepers. We couldn't be prouder to have these budding professionals kicking off their zoo careers with us right here in Hutchinson!"

The facility noted that interns bring fresh energy and passion while learning the fundamentals of zoo operations. Current interns include Anya, Ella, Rebekah, Skyler and Amanda.

"Our interns bring fresh energy and passion, eager to learn the ropes of zoo life. They're the future of wildlife care and conservation, and we're thrilled to be part of their journey," zoo officials said.

The zoo emphasized the educational value of the internship program, describing how students gain practical experience that shapes their career paths.

"Diving into real-world challenges, they gain invaluable knowledge and skills by working directly with our experienced team. This hands-on experience is critical in shaping their careers in the zoo field," the facility stated.

"Whether it's assisting in feeding, habitat maintenance, or education programs, our interns contribute in meaningful ways, making a real impact each day," officials added.

The zoo expressed pride in supporting the next generation of wildlife professionals, stating: "We proudly support and champion our interns, celebrating their growth and dedication. Here's to them as they take the first exciting steps into a rewarding career in wildlife conservation!"

"Each of these amazing keepers bring passion, knowledge, and love to their work every day, ensuring our animals' good wellbeing," the zoo said.

The zoo encouraged community members to share their favorite zoo memories in celebration of the staff's dedication and to show appreciation for the keepers' work.

"Celebrating Zookeeper Week is crucial because it shines a spotlight on the heroes of the Hutchinson Zoo — our incredible zookeepers," the facility stated. "These dedicated professionals work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the well-being of animals and inspire the public through their passion and expertise."

National Zookeeper Week is observed annually to recognize the contributions of animal care professionals at zoos and aquariums across the country.

Individual keeper spotlights highlighted specialized expertise across the facility. Bird keeper Molly was recognized for caring for both winged animals and small mammals including ringtails and prairie dogs. Carnivore keeper Becky manages care for otters and foxes while also handling some non-carnivorous animals like beavers. Hoofstock keeper Melanie oversees bison, deer and mini farm herds, and herp keeper Kira provides expert care for amphibians and reptiles while also training dwarf goats and feeding dart frogs.

"Each of these amazing keepers bring passion, knowledge, and love to their work every day, ensuring our animals' good wellbeing," the zoo said in its announcement.

The zoo encouraged community members to share their favorite zoo memories in celebration of the staff's dedication and to show appreciation for the keepers' work.

"Celebrating Zookeeper Week is crucial because it shines a spotlight on the heroes of the Hutchinson Zoo — our incredible zookeepers," the facility stated. "These dedicated professionals work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the well-being of animals and inspire the public through their passion and expertise."

National Zookeeper Week is observed annually to recognize the contributions of animal care professionals at zoos and aquariums across the country.