COAL VALLEY, ILLINOIS (February 7, 2023) — Do you know a teenager that loves animals, science, or conservation? We thought so!
Niabi Zoo is excited to welcome a new group of motivated students eager to learn and gain experience as a volunteer at our zoological park this summer.
What is a Junior Zoo Keeper (JZK) you might ask?
A JZK is a student between the ages fourteen to seventeen that:
- Has a passion for animals and nature, and a desire to take action for conservation of species and habitats;
- Is willing to receive training, take direction well, be upbeat, and share passion for animals with others; and
- Can commit to volunteering at least four hours per week throughout the summer for ten weeks.
As JZKs, students will:
- Receives professional training on topics such as conservation, interpretation, public speaking, and learn a wide range of information about our animals and their behavior;
- Become a Zoo Naturalist to interpret in front of animal habitats with biological artifacts (skulls, pelts, teeth, claws. . .);
- Assist with Zoo Camp, education programs, and conservation-themed special events;
- Keep our guinea pigs and domestic animals safe while teaching people about them; and
- Help to create enrichment items to stimulate our animals' natural behaviors.
Does being a JZK sound like something the teenager you know would enjoy? If so, we encourage you to please share this message with your family and friends as applications are now available for the 2023 season!
JZK Information Session — It is highly recommended that all new candidates view the Junior Zookeeper Information Video available on the JZK webpage. It includes a complete overview of the program, its requirements, position descriptions, perks of the program, and more. It should answer any questions one may have about the program.
If you know of a youth group or facility that would be interested in the JZK program for their teenagers, we would be happy to send a PDF flyer that can be added to a school newsletter, e-mail, webpage, or printed out for distribution. Just e-mail education@niabizoo.com to receive the flyer which will contain the link to the application. Of course, program details and the application can always be accessed at our website, niabizoo.com/join-our-team/junior-zookeeper/.
