Zookeeper for a Day

We are not currently scheduling for the Zookeeper for a Day program while we are closed due to COVID19. Please check back after we reopen for updated availability.  

Have you ever wondered what a morning in the life of a zookeeper is like? Are you interested in animals and want to know firsthand how zookeepers give amazing care to the animals at the SF Teaching Zoo?

Sign up for our “Zookeeper for a Day” program to work alongside a zookeeper as they give exceptional care to the animals.

Who can participate?

This program is available for animal enthusiasts ages 9 and up.

*If you are considering applying to the Zoo Animal Technology Program, this is a great opportunity to get a sneak peak of what your experience working here would look like.

Availability

This program is offered Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays have limited availability, with only one slot open.

*Due to special events and the nature of the Zoo Animal Technology Program, there are blocks of time where the program is not available so zookeepers can have proper training and prepare for events. These are reflected in the list below, as well as dates where the Zookeeper for a Day program is already booked to capacity. Availability is subject to change.

Rates

$30 + tax per day

Reservations

Reservations must be made at least a week in advance. Please fill out the form below, requesting your top three dates. If you are requesting a day for more than one participant, please fill out this form for each one and make a note in the comments section. You will receive an email with the confirmed date and information regarding preparations for the program. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Have additional questions? Please contact us at 352-395-5633 or zoo@sfcollege.edu.

What will I do during my experience?

After checking into the Front Office, participants will be paired with a zookeeper. Participants will help zookeepers with daily care of the animals they are assigned to work with that week. This includes cleaning, feeding, observations and preparing enrichments.

What animals do participants get a chance to work with?

Participants will mainly work alongside zookeepers caring for birds, reptiles and some select mammals. We also have an opportunity to work in our Commissary and help make diets.

*Animals such as cats, primates and otters are unavailable for participants due to their danger potential.

Can I request what animals I work with?

We cannot guarantee which animals participants work with. The zoo environment is very dynamic and unpredictable. The animals’ welfare is always our priority. Animal areas are chosen based on their health and temperament that day. If a participant has signed up for the program multiple times, we try to vary which animals they work with.

Are parents allowed or required to sign up for the program as well?

Parents are not required to chaperone their child’s experience. If a parent or guardian would like to sign up, they will work with a different keeper and animals. If more people than the keeper and one participant work in enclosures, the animals could become stressed, potentially causing harm to themselves or others.

Can I take pictures of my child during the program?

After we open at 9 a.m., parents may purchase a ticket to come into the zoo. As long as the pictures are taken from the guest trails, you may take pictures of your child. Note that not all of the areas are accessible or visible from the trails.

Will the program be cancelled if there is inclement weather?

Our zookeepers work in most conditions, rain or shine. If the weather forecast indicates dangerous weather conditions, we will reach out to reschedule.

What do I do if I need to cancel my reservation?

Please email or call our Zoo receptionist at 352-395-5633 or email zoo@sfcollege.edu if you have to cancel your reservation. We appreciate as much advanced notice as possible.

Registration Form

Thank you for your interest in our educational programs at the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo.

Your form has been submitted to our scheduling staff, and you will receive a response as soon as possible to the email address or phone number provided.

More information on our on children's programs can be found on our zoo educational programs page.

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