National Zookeeper Week Profile – Amy H.

They’re some of the most hardworking, dedicated and passionate people you’ll meet. It’s National Zookeeper Appreciation Week and we’re celebrating the amazing work our zookeepers do for wildlife every day. The Maryland Zoo is fortunate to have expert teams of animal professionals focused on the care of more than 200 species big and small. We’re so grateful for their knowledge, expertise and commitment which continues to advance animal husbandry and wildlife conservation here and around the globe.

This year, National Zookeeper Week is July 17th through the 23rd. Each day we’ll share new keeper profiles and introduce you to the people making a difference for animals at the Maryland Zoo.

Meet Amy H.

What kinds of animals do you work with or what area?

I’m a contact area keeper so mostly I work with the goats and the giraffe at the feeding station. But I get to help out all around the Zoo and work with a little bit of everything.

How long have you been working at the Zoo?

I started in September 2014, right when we opened Penguin Coast, so almost 2 years now.

What is something you do every day for the animals that would surprise us?

Keepers write down everything so I think people would be surprised by how well we know the animals. Everyday we closely track their health and behavior so we can adjust how we care for them and meet their needs.

What hobbies/interests do you have outside of your Zoo life?

I am a little bit of a nerd. I play tabletops and online games. I also am a singer and I’m teaching myself the ukulele.

What is your favorite part of a typical day at the Zoo?

When I get to do something new. Whether it’s new enrichment, implementing a new training program, or learning a new husbandry technique. I love novelty, and you get a lot of that at the Zoo.