Hutchinson Zoo Celebrates National Zookeeper Week with Staff Recognition
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Zoo is celebrating National Zookeeper Week by highlighting the dedicated professionals who care for the facility's diverse animal collection.
The zoo's recognition effort focuses on both primary keepers and swing keepers who ensure continuous animal care throughout the week, according to social media posts from the facility.
Among the honored staff members are primary keepers Shannon, Melanie, Ella and Jasmine, who are described as the heart of the zoo's animal care team. The zoo noted that these keepers are divided into care teams, with 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, according to the zoo.
"Swing keepers are the ultimate team players," the zoo stated in its announcement, 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.
"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.
