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| Photo of Jill Palmer |
The Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, is dedicated to the mission of conservation, science, education and recreation. The 42-acre Zoological Garden was chartered in 1859 and opened to the public July 1, 1874. Hands-on experiences and a collection of nearly 1,600 exotic animals make the Zoo an interactive paradise for all guests. Victorian gardens surround naturalistic exhibits such as African Plains, Bear Country and Carnivore Kingdom. The Reptile House is a unique setting for more than 87 different species while PECO Primate Reserve is home to some of the world's most endangered primates. Zoo Guests can top off their visit with a ride on the new Zooballoon which soars to a height of 400 feet, giving passengers a spectacular view of the Zoo, Philadelphia skyline and surrounding vistas. Get in touch with Philadelphia's wild side at America's first zoo - for more information and to plan a visit to the Philadelphia Zoo please call (215) 243-1100 or log on to www.philadelphiazoo.org Be sure to visit Jill and her Hycinth Macaws at the Bird House!
3400 West Girard Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19104-1196
(215) 243-1100 Phone
(215) 243-5385 Fax
Zoo hours:
9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Closed: June 14, Thanksgiving, Dec. 24, 25, 31, Jan.1
Some interesting info about the Philadelphia Zoo:
Scenes in the movie, Rocky starring Sylvester Stallone, were shot in front of the Carnivore House and the movie,Buddy, is based on one of the Gorillas that lived for many years in the old Monkey House, Massa. The Philadelphia Zoo also was the subject of a book called The Peaceable Kingdom : A Year in the Life of America's Oldest Zoo by John Sedgwick.
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Name:
Jill Palmer
Title:
Bird Keeper
How long have you been working for a zoo?
I started working at the Philadelphia Zoo 13 years ago, on Valentine’s Day. It has been a love affair ever since.
Why did you start to work at the zoo?
I had just graduated from college and wanted to work with animals. I applied for a (keeper) job at the Zoo and they brought me in for an interview. It was my first job interview (since graduating from college) and shortly after they offered me the job.
What is your favorite part of working at a zoo?
Like anyone else would say, my favorite part of working at the Zoo is working hands-on with the animals.
What is the hardest part of working at a zoo?
The hardest part for me is saying good-bye to animals that are shipped out to another Zoo or animals that are elderly and die in our collection.
What type of educational background do you have?
In college I majored in Wildlife Conservation and Ecology and minored in Biology. Before coming to the Philadelphia Zoo I also had four and a half years experience as a student intern and staff supervisor at Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research, Inc., loc
What is your favorite animal to work with at the zoo?
The Hyacinth macaws are my favorite because they are large, beautiful and in need of breeding. These birds are listed as vulnerable or CITES 1 (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species - CITES is an international agreement between governme
If someone wants to work at a zoo what do you recommend that they do?
I would recommend that they volunteer at a Rehab Center. They will take you and work you into the ground, but it is the best way to learn.
What is the most memorable thing that has happened to you while working for the zoo?
The most memorable event would be the successful breeding of the Hyacinth macaw for the first time in Philadelphia Zoo history, about one year ago (July 23, 2001).
What role do you feel zoos, parks and aquariums will play in the new millennium?
They are all going to be like a Noah’s Ark to me. Unfortunately, they will provide the only place that wildlife will be able to live and breed.
If you are involved in any special projects (for example raising orphaned animals), please tell us a little about them.
My job is so busy with the day-to-day care of the animals, but as time allows we do provide enrichment for the animals such as different toys and perching materials. In my personal life, I enjoy rescuing cats. |
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