The morning after the storm every employee reported in, ready to get to work, even those who had lost their own homes to Andrew's wrath. The devastation that greeted them was offset by something nothing less than miraculous. With the exception of 135 dead or missing birds from the destroyed aviary, only five other mammals were found dead. The workers also found another miracle. A small antelope had given birth during the storm; her newborn (appropriately named Andrew) was discovered in a zoo moat!
Although the animals had survived, many had scattered, and the trauma they had endured was evident. Over time many returned on their own to the only home they knew; one pheasant was even rescued from the Florida Turnpike.
The three hours of storm damage Andrew produced took four years to rebuild. All the exhibits, except for the aviary, which is still waiting for funding to come through, are open now. The weeks and months and years the staff spent clearing the debris, caring for the animals, and rebuilding the exhibits has made them an incredibly cohesive team. New employees to Metro zoo will find it a special environment in which to work.
Salaries at Metro zoo
Metro zoo is a county-run facility that provides competitive salaries and excellent benefits. Entry-level workers start at about $16,000 to $17,000 a year. Senior keepers earn approximately $25,000, and assistant curators can expect $30,000 to $35,000. Communications director Ron Magill, with many years of service now makes $55,000 a year. Someone new to his particular job would start out in the $35,000 to $38,000 range.
Animal-Related Positions at Metro zoo
Metro zoo claims about sixty positions that are directly animal related. Ron Magill admits that they are probably understaffed. He says, "One of the greatest compliments I could give Metro zoo is that it does a tremendous amount with very little available to it as far as staffing goes."
Job titles found at Metro zoo are similar to those in other facilities. They include keepers, curators, zoological supervisors (field supervisors positions below the assistant curator level), educators, and a veterinarian and vet tech.
Education Programs at Metro zoo
The education department at Metro zoo designs programs that offer hands-on experience to participants. They include offering school field trips, the Zoofari Summer Camp, minizoo camps, and a weekend adventure series.
Metro zoo's education department also participates in helping young people explore the possibilities of future zoo-related careers. Students get a behind-the-scenes look at exhibits and a chance to talk with the professionals who work there. Contact the education department for more information.
