How to Become an Exotic Animal Handler (Safari So Good!)
If you’ve ever been captivated by the allure of working with exotic animals, or you’re intrigued by the prospect of becoming an exotic animal handler, you’ve landed at the right page.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to follow to kick-start your career as an exotic animal handler. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The training and education that can guide your path.
- How to secure a position as an exotic animal handler.
So, whether you’re an animal enthusiast stepping into this field for the first time, or a seasoned handler seeking to expand your knowledge, stick around.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming an exotic animal handler.
Let’s embark on this exciting journey!
Steps to Become an Exotic Animal Handler
Step 1: Understand the Role
Being an exotic animal handler is a unique and challenging role that involves caring for, feeding, and maintaining the health of exotic animals in zoos, aquariums, or wildlife sanctuaries.
It also includes educating the public about these animals and their habitats.
Before diving into this career, it’s critical to understand what the role entails.
It involves unpredictable working hours, intense physical labor, and the capacity to work in all weather conditions.
An animal handler must be knowledgeable about different animal behaviors, dietary needs, and habitat conditions.
You also need to have skills in animal handling and restraint techniques, and be prepared to potentially face dangerous situations.
It’s a role that requires dedication, passion, and an inherent love for animals.
Understanding the role will help you decide whether you’re genuinely interested in pursuing this career path or not.
Try volunteering at a local zoo or wildlife center to gain some initial experience and see if this job is something you would enjoy.
Remember, it’s not just about working with animals, but also about conservation, education, and ensuring these animals have the best life possible.
Step 2: Obtain a High School Diploma
A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement to start your career as an Exotic Animal Handler.
This step is crucial because the skills and knowledge acquired during high school such as biology, physical education, and even psychology can be beneficial in understanding the behavior and physiology of different animals.
In addition to the academic part, high school is a perfect stage to start gaining experience in handling animals.
Joining related clubs, volunteering at local animal shelters, or interning at zoos or veterinary clinics can provide you with valuable practical exposure to animal care.
High school is also the right time to begin thinking about post-secondary education opportunities.
Many professionals in this field have degrees in Zoology, Veterinary Science, or Wildlife Biology.
It’s important to research early about possible colleges and universities that offer these programs, their admission requirements, and the coursework.
Remember, obtaining a high school diploma is just the first step towards a successful career as an Exotic Animal Handler.
The passion for animals, dedication, and continuous learning are essential to thrive in this profession.
Step 3: Pursue a Degree in Animal Science, Biology or a Related Field
Choosing to pursue a degree in Animal Science, Biology or a similar field is a great way to further your knowledge and understanding of animals, which is integral for becoming an Exotic Animal Handler.
These degrees offer a wealth of knowledge not only about animal behavior, but also physiology, genetics, nutrition, and more.
Most degree programs in these fields offer a combination of classroom lectures and lab work, which often includes hands-on experience with animals.
This offers invaluable experience and provides a practical understanding of animal care.
You may also have the opportunity to focus your studies on specific types of animals, which can be beneficial if you already know you want to work with a certain species.
It’s also advisable to take courses or electives in exotic animal behavior and care, if available.
Such classes could provide specific insights into the unique requirements and behaviors of exotic animals, giving you a head start for your future career.
Remember, while the degree provides a solid foundation, experience is key in this field.
So, try to engage in internships or part-time jobs related to animal care while pursuing your studies.
This will not only improve your practical skills but also make you more attractive to potential employers.
Step 4: Gain Practical Experience with Animals
Working hands-on with animals is an essential step towards becoming an exotic animal handler.
This experience is invaluable as it helps you understand animal behavior, dietary needs, and how to handle medical emergencies.
There are many ways to gain this practical experience.
You can start by volunteering at local animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers or zoos.
This not only provides you with valuable experience, but also allows you to network with professionals in the field.
Internships are another great way to get hands-on experience, these can often be arranged through your educational institution.
Another way to gain practical experience is by working in pet stores that sell exotic animals.
Here, you can learn how to take care of various species of exotic animals on a day-to-day basis.
You might also consider becoming a pet sitter for exotic animals.
This can be a great way to learn about different species while earning some income.
Remember, the more varied your experience, the better.
Different species of exotic animals have different needs and behaviors, so working with a wide variety of animals will give you a broader understanding and make you more versatile as an exotic animal handler.
It’s important to note that this process takes time.
Patience is key in both interacting with animals and in building up a suitable level of experience.
Keep in mind that the more experience you have, the more appealing you will be to potential employers.
Step 5: Volunteer at Zoos, Aquariums, or Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers
Volunteering your time in zoos, aquariums, or wildlife rehabilitation centers is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience with a variety of exotic animals.
These institutions often require dedicated volunteers to assist with day-to-day animal care, feeding, and habitat maintenance tasks.
By volunteering, you will be exposed to the realities of working with exotic animals.
You will learn about different species’ behavior, dietary requirements, and habitat preferences, as well as the necessary safety protocols when handling these animals.
This practical experience can be invaluable when applying for professional roles as an exotic animal handler.
Additionally, volunteering can provide networking opportunities with professionals in the field.
Building a strong network can open doors to job opportunities that may not be publicized.
It also allows you to gain recommendations from established professionals, which can be particularly beneficial when applying for jobs or further education in the field.
Remember, consistent volunteering demonstrates your commitment and passion for working with exotic animals.
It is a significant step towards becoming a professional exotic animal handler.
Step 6: Obtain Necessary Certifications and Licenses
As an Exotic Animal Handler, you will need to obtain specific certifications and licenses to ensure you have the qualifications required to safely care for and handle the animals.
One of the most common certifications required is the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) license, which is necessary for anyone wishing to professionally handle animals, including exotic ones.
The USDA will conduct an inspection of your facility before granting the license.
You may also need a state-specific license or permit, as regulations can vary widely.
Some states require a wildlife rehabilitation license, while others may need you to have a captive wildlife permit.
These licenses and permits also often require an inspection of your facility and a background check.
In addition to these, certain organizations offer certification programs for exotic animal handlers.
For example, the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) and the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) offer professional development and certification programs.
These programs generally involve coursework, training, and hands-on experience.
Remember, obtaining necessary certifications and licenses can be a lengthy process and may require continual education and renewal.
Ensure to stay up-to-date with the latest standards and regulations in your state and in the exotic animal handling field.
Step 7: Learn About Exotic Animal Nutrition and Behavior
As an exotic animal handler, a deep understanding of animal nutrition and behavior specific to the species you are working with is vital.
This knowledge will help you maintain the health and well-being of the animals in your care.
You can gain this knowledge through coursework, workshops, and seminars offered by universities or organizations specializing in zoology or animal sciences.
These courses often cover topics such as animal behavior, dietary needs, breeding, and the social structures of different species.
You should also seek out resources and research papers related to exotic animal behavior and nutrition.
Veterinarians, zoologists, and experienced handlers are also valuable sources of information.
Observation is another crucial method of learning about exotic animal behavior.
Spending time watching the animals you are working with can give you insights into their habits, likes, and dislikes.
This information can help you create a comfortable environment for the animals and can assist in training efforts.
Remember, as each exotic animal species has unique dietary requirements and behaviors, you need to continuously educate yourself as you work with different animals.
This continuous learning process will make you a more effective handler and ensure the animals in your care lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
Step 8: Develop Skills in Animal Handling and Training
Developing skills in animal handling and training is a crucial part of becoming an exotic animal handler.
This often involves hands-on experience and practical training, which you could gain through volunteering or internships at zoos, animal sanctuaries or rehabilitation centers.
Here, you’ll learn how to safely handle different species of animals, understand their behavior, and administer their basic needs like feeding and habitat cleaning.
In addition to hands-on experience, enrolling in animal training courses or workshops will help you understand the different training techniques and methods used for different species.
You’ll learn about positive reinforcement training, a method often used with exotic animals, which involves rewarding the animal for desired behavior.
Being an exotic animal handler often means working with potentially dangerous animals.
Therefore, developing skills in emergency animal handling and acquiring first aid training specifically for animals can be extremely beneficial.
Finally, gaining skills in public speaking or education could also be beneficial if your role involves educating the public about these animals and their conservation.
Overall, each of these skills will help you ensure the welfare of the animals in your care and excel in your role as an exotic animal handler.
Step 9: Stay Updated with Animal Welfare Laws and Regulations
As an Exotic Animal Handler, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest animal welfare laws and regulations.
These laws and guidelines exist to ensure the safety and well-being of animals and can vary by location and type of animal.
They cover everything from the proper handling and care of animals to their transport and housing requirements.
These regulations often evolve as we learn more about animal behavior and needs, and as public sentiment shifts.
Therefore, it is important to continuously educate yourself.
You can do so by regularly checking websites of animal welfare organizations and government agencies, attending conferences, seminars, and workshops, and networking with other professionals in the field.
In addition to ensuring the well-being of the animals you handle, staying informed about these laws can help you avoid legal problems and maintain a positive professional reputation.
Remember, ignorance of the law is not considered a defense, so it’s your responsibility to know and understand the regulations that apply to your work.
Step 10: Apply for Positions as an Exotic Animal Handler
After you have completed your training and gained experience, you are now ready to apply for positions as an Exotic Animal Handler.
This can be done through various online job portals, direct applications to zoos, aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation centers, exotic pet stores, or even film and television productions that need such expertise.
While applying, make sure your resume is up to date and highlights your skills, experiences, and any certifications you may have.
Emphasize your knowledge about different exotic animals, their behavior, dietary needs, and your ability to handle them safely and ethically.
Prepare for interviews by revisiting your knowledge and experience.
You may be asked questions about your understanding of animal behavior, handling techniques, dietary needs, and emergency procedures.
It would also be beneficial to have references from your internships, volunteer work, or previous employment in the field.
Do not get disheartened if you do not get a job immediately.
This field is highly specialized and competitive.
Keep building up your experience, attend relevant workshops, and keep networking with professionals in the field.
The right opportunity will come along with persistence and dedication.
Step 11: Continue Education and Training to Expand Your Knowledge and Skills
Exotic Animal Handling is a field that constantly evolves and expands.
As an exotic animal handler, continuing your education and training is crucial to remain competent and relevant in your job role.
You should always be open to learn about new species, their behaviors, habitats, diet, and requirements.
You can expand your knowledge by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to exotic animal care.
These events often feature expert speakers who discuss the latest research findings, best practices, and innovative care techniques.
Participating in these events not only builds your knowledge but also helps you connect with other professionals in the field, which can provide valuable networking opportunities.
Consider pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in zoology, animal behavior, or veterinary sciences.
These programs can provide deeper insights into animal physiology, health issues specific to exotic animals, and the latest in animal handling and training techniques.
Remember, practical, hands-on experience is invaluable in this field.
Regularly volunteering at zoos, wildlife reserves, or animal rehabilitation centers can provide you with diverse experiences and exposure to a wider range of exotic animals.
Lastly, always stay updated with changes in laws and regulations related to the handling and care of exotic animals.
The legal aspect is critical in this field and being well-informed can prevent potential legal issues in the future.
Step 12: Network with Professionals in the Field.
Establishing strong relationships with other professionals in the field of exotic animal handling can help you gain knowledge, improve your skills, and potentially provide you with more job opportunities.
Join local or national associations, like the American Association of Zoo Keepers, to meet other handlers, veterinarians, and zoo directors.
Attending conferences, workshops, and seminars is also an excellent way to meet people and stay up-to-date on the latest best practices, research, and regulations in the field.
You might even get the chance to meet and learn from renowned experts in exotic animal care.
Additionally, consider seeking a mentor who is an experienced animal handler.
They can provide guidance, share their experiences, and give valuable advice that can help you navigate your career path.
Remember, networking is not only about what you can gain but also what you can contribute.
Share your knowledge and experiences, and be willing to help others when they need it.
This approach will make you a valued member of your professional network and can open up even more opportunities.
Exotic Animal Handler Roles and Responsibilities
Exotic Animal Handlers work directly with a wide variety of animals that are not typically found in a domestic setting.
They must have specialized knowledge to provide appropriate care for these unique animals.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Animal Care
- Provide daily care, including feeding and cleaning enclosures.
- Monitor animal health and well-being on a regular basis.
- Administer medication or treatments as necessary.
Behavior Observation
- Monitor animal behavior to detect any signs of illness or distress.
- Record behaviors for scientific research or for use in creating behavior enrichment programs.
- Identify and manage any behavioral issues.
Education and Conservation
- Educate the public about the animals, their habitats and conservation efforts.
- Conduct presentations and demonstrations for visitors.
- Participate in conservation initiatives.
Training
- Train animals for handling, transport, medical procedures, and interaction with the public, if necessary.
- Use positive reinforcement techniques to condition animals’ behavior.
Animal Enrichment
- Develop and implement enrichment programs to stimulate the animals’ physical and mental well-being.
- Create environments that stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors.
Safety Management
- Ensure the safety of both the animals and the public.
- Follow strict safety protocols and regulations.
Record Keeping
- Maintain detailed records of animal health, diet, behavior, activities, and any incidents.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with veterinarians, animal nutritionists, and other relevant personnel to ensure animals’ wellbeing.
- Collaborate with research and conservation teams.
Emergency Response
- Respond to any emergencies, including animal escapes or injuries.
- Have knowledge of first aid and emergency procedures for various species.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated on the latest research and practices related to exotic animal care.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development.
What Does an Exotic Animal Handler Do?
Exotic Animal Handlers, also known as Zookeepers or Wildlife Handlers, primarily work in zoos, animal sanctuaries, wildlife reserves, or in the film and television industry.
They take care of a wide range of exotic animals, from reptiles and birds to large mammals.
Their daily duties include feeding the animals, maintaining their habitats, and ensuring their overall well-being.
They also monitor the animals’ behavior and health, and report any concerns or changes to the appropriate animal health professionals.
Exotic Animal Handlers are involved in the training of animals for human interaction, which could be as simple as allowing a visitor to feed the animal, or as complex as training the animal for a film or television appearance.
They often provide educational talks or demonstrations to the public to raise awareness about the animals and their conservation status.
They also assist in breeding programs aimed at increasing the population of endangered species.
In some cases, Exotic Animal Handlers may be involved in the capture and reintroduction of animals into the wild.
They often work closely with veterinary staff, conservationists, and researchers to ensure the animals are treated humanely and ethically.
Safety is a paramount concern in this role, so handlers must be knowledgeable about the behavioral traits and potential risks associated with each animal they care for.
This can include understanding the signs of aggression or distress in an animal, knowing the appropriate procedures for handling potentially dangerous animals, and ensuring that the animals’ enclosures are secure.
Essential Exotic Animal Handler Skills
- Animal Care: An animal handler must have knowledge about the feeding, grooming, and basic healthcare needs of a variety of exotic animals.
- Communication: This role requires clear communication with colleagues, supervisors, and visitors. This includes giving instructions or explaining safety procedures.
- Handling Skills: Animal handlers need to have the skills to handle various species of exotic animals safely and humanely, often under challenging conditions.
- Physical Fitness: Exotic animal handlers often need to be physically fit as the job can involve lifting heavy animals or equipment, and often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Knowledge of Animal Behavior: Understanding the behaviors and habits of different exotic animals is critical to ensure their wellbeing and the safety of the handler.
- Patience: Working with animals requires a lot of patience, as they do not understand human language and may not always behave as expected.
- Emergency Response: Knowing how to respond in an emergency, such as an animal becoming ill or escaping, is crucial. This includes first aid skills and understanding the protocols for handling such situations.
- Education and Conservation: Being able to educate the public about the animals and their conservation needs is often a part of the handler’s role.
- Animal Training: Depending on the role, animal handlers may need to train animals to perform certain behaviors, either for veterinary procedures or for educational presentations.
- Attention to Detail: This is important for observing changes in animal behavior or health, maintaining detailed records, and ensuring that habitats are kept clean and enriching.
- Creativity: This is useful for devising enriching activities or environments for the animals, or for finding ways to engage and educate the public about them.
- Teamwork: Animal handlers often work as part of a team and need to be able to cooperate and communicate effectively with their coworkers.
- Knowledge of Regulations: They should be aware of the legal and ethical regulations related to the care of exotic animals in their region.
- Resilience: Working with animals can be physically and emotionally demanding, so resilience and the ability to handle stress are important.
- Passion for Animals: A genuine love for and interest in animals, and a commitment to their wellbeing, is crucial for this role.
Exotic Animal Handler Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Junior Exotic Animal Handler
You typically begin your journey as a Junior Exotic Animal Handler.
At this stage, you will be absorbing knowledge about different exotic animals and gaining hands-on experience under supervision.
Your responsibilities may include feeding animals, maintaining their living environment, and learning about their behavioral patterns.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Learn Continuously: Educate yourself about various species of exotic animals, their diets, and behaviors.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from senior handlers and veterinarians about handling exotic animals safely and effectively.
- Compassion and Patience: Develop a bond with the animals and understand that each animal has its own pace and comfort zone.
The Ascent: Exotic Animal Handler
As you become more confident and experienced, you transition into the role of an Exotic Animal Handler.
You’ll handle more responsibilities such as taking care of the medical needs of the animals, training them, and assisting in their transportation.
Here’s how to excel in this stage:
- First Aid Skills: Learn basic first aid skills specific to exotic animals.
- Collaboration: Work effectively with other handlers, vets, and conservationists.
- Communication: Develop strong communication skills to share important information about the animals’ health and behavior.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Exotic Animal Handler
The next step is the Senior Exotic Animal Handler position.
Here, you are recognized for your expertise and your leadership within the team.
You may take on mentoring roles, oversee animal care, and manage handler teams.
To excel as a Senior Exotic Animal Handler:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge with junior handlers to ensure high standards of animal care.
- Problem Solving: Be prepared to handle any emergencies or unexpected situations involving the animals.
- Leadership: Lead by example, managing both the handler team and the animals effectively.
Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may choose to specialize in a specific area, such as becoming an Exotic Animal Trainer, Zoo Manager, or Conservation Specialist.
Each of these roles requires greater responsibilities and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Specialization: Deepen your knowledge in a specific area, such as a particular group of animals or conservation work.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
- Advocacy: Advocate for the welfare and conservation of exotic animals.
Pinnacle of Success: Zoo Director or Conservation Specialist
You may reach roles like Zoo Director or Conservation Specialist at the apex of the Exotic Animal Handler career ladder.
Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall animal care strategy, making critical decisions about conservation efforts, and managing larger teams.
Exotic Animal Handler Salary
Entry-Level Exotic Animal Handler
- Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
- Entry-level exotic animal handlers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a degree in zoology, biology, wildlife ecology, or a related field.
Mid-Level Exotic Animal Handler
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year
- Mid-level handlers have 2-5 years of experience and are often responsible for more complex animal care tasks, including administering medications and assisting with veterinary procedures.
Senior Exotic Animal Handler
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
- Senior handlers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading animal care teams, planning diets, and overseeing overall animal health.
Zoo Curator / Exotic Animal Park Manager
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $90,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve overseeing the daily operations of an animal facility, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations.
Director of Animal Care / VP of Animal Operations
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, a deep understanding of exotic animal care, and often involve setting strategies for animal health, conservation efforts, and public education.
Exotic Animal Handler Work Environment
Exotic Animal Handlers often work in zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, aquariums, and sometimes in film or television industry where animals are required.
They may also be employed by research institutions, veterinary facilities, or conservation organizations.
The work schedule of an Exotic Animal Handler can be quite unpredictable as it depends on the needs of the animals they care for.
This could involve working on weekends, holidays, and even during the night.
The work environment can be physically demanding and potentially dangerous, given the nature of the animals they handle.
It requires a high level of understanding of animal behavior, as well as the ability to react quickly and calmly in potentially hazardous situations.
Exotic Animal Handlers may sometimes have the opportunity to travel, especially if they work for organizations involved in animal rescue or conservation efforts.
After gaining substantial experience and knowledge, they may also advance to positions like animal trainer or zookeeper, or even choose to open their own exotic pet store or sanctuary.
FAQs About Becoming an Exotic Animal Handler
What is needed to become an exotic animal handler?
To become an exotic animal handler, you will generally need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Most handlers gain experience by working in zoos, animal shelters, or veterinary clinics.
Further knowledge and training in biology, animal science, or zoology can be beneficial.
Key skills include physical strength, patience, keen observational abilities, knowledge of animal behavior, and excellent communication skills.
Handlers must also be comfortable with the unpredictability that comes with working with exotic animals.
How long does it take to become an exotic animal handler?
The time it takes to become an exotic animal handler can vary.
Often, the process involves gaining hands-on experience, which can take anywhere from a few months to several years depending on the complexity of the animals you’re working with and the level of expertise required by the employer.
Some handlers may also choose to pursue a degree or certificate in a related field, which can take 2-4 years.
Do I need a special license or certification to become an exotic animal handler?
While not always required, some states and employers do require exotic animal handlers to have a license or certification.
This is especially true if the job involves working with potentially dangerous animals.
Certifications can also enhance your credibility and job prospects.
The International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council and the National Association for Wildlife Rehabilitation offer certifications for those interested in this field.
Is being an exotic animal handler dangerous?
There can be risks associated with being an exotic animal handler, as they work with animals that can be unpredictable, potentially aggressive, or carry diseases.
However, with proper training, knowledge, and precautions, these risks can be minimized.
It is important for handlers to always respect the animals and understand their behaviors and signals to ensure safety for both the handler and the animals.
What are the prospects for exotic animal handlers in the next decade?
The job prospects for exotic animal handlers are expected to grow moderately over the next decade.
The demand for skilled handlers in zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, sanctuaries, and research facilities is likely to continue.
Additionally, public interest in conservation and animal protection efforts can also contribute to job opportunities in this field.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on a journey to become an exotic animal handler is no small feat, but it’s undoubtedly rewarding.
Equipped with the right training, education, and dedication, you’re well on your way to making a significant difference in the world of wildlife conservation.
Remember, the path may be rigorous, but the experiences are priceless. Your efforts could lead to remarkable discoveries and contribute to the protection and understanding of these magnificent creatures.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with experts in the field. And most importantly, never stop nurturing your passion for exotic animals.
Because the world is waiting to see what you can achieve.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in exotic animal handling, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.
This free tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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