July 17 kicks off National Zoo Keeper Week (NZKW)! National Zoo Keeper Week is celebrated in the third week of July every year, and the week-long observance aims to appreciate zookeepers’ hard work, conservation efforts, and passion. They’re absolutely essential to the smooth functioning of any zoo and the continuance of the animal care profession.
Following the efforts of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK), the third week of July was made National Zoo Keeper Week by the U.S. Congress in the year 2007. The official mission of this week is to “recognize and promote dedicated zoo and aquarium professionals year-round, culminating in an annual celebration.” According to the AAZK, this celebration focuses on “the need to protect and preserve our wildlife and vanishing habitats via conservation messages created by their institutions. The animal keepers role as educators and wildlife ambassadors has become essential.”
We all have visited zoos in our childhood and even as adults. Zoo visits have often been part of school field trips as they are a great place to learn about animals and expand our knowledge. However, we often overlook the unsung heroes who work to keep the zoos and their animals in the best conditions possible — the zookeepers. This week aims to honor the hard work, dedication, fun, patience, and professionalism that goes into this profession and the efforts put in by every member. Furthermore, it seeks to highlight the diversity of zookeepers and their contributions to global conservation efforts.
Zookeepers are extremely passionate people and they work towards inspiring people to care about animals and make a place for them in their hearts. They strive to tell you the unique and compelling story of each animal and species. There is a lot going on behind the scenes such as animal health checks, maintenance programs, etc. Zookeepers are constantly upskilling by attending training sessions and conferences to learn new ways to provide better care for animals.
Now, across the United States, AAZK chapters and zoos celebrate National Zoo Keeper Week during the third week of July. You can celebrate by buying tickets to your local zoo and thanking Zoo Keepers for all they do!
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