Australian Zookeeper Shares What It's Like To Run A Wildlife Park
Australian zookeeper Chad Staples has spent years caring for animals, and his work comes with far more pressure than most people ever see. From daily routines to emergency situations, his life at the wildlife park is built around keeping every creature safe.
He also gives followers a behind-the-scenes look at what that responsibility really means, from managing different collections to protecting animals during major crises. Along the way, the photos and stories offer a closer look at the wildlife park and the people who keep it running.
Here’s a closer look at Chad’s unusual day-to-day life.
Chad never imagined that he would end up having a career like this. He has always loved animals, so he's extremely thankful for landing a great opportunity like this straight out of high school 24 years ago.
It's obviously a tremendous amount of work.
He manages two collections, one at Featherdale in Sydney and another at Mogo, where endangered species from around the world are cared for.
Chad truly loves what he does, so he doesn't consider his responsibilities a job. He is so passionate that, to him, it's just pure joy.
There is no typical day when you work with animals; his whole life is dedicated to making sure they have everything they need.
A year ago, Mogo Wildlife Park was confronted by serious danger after bushfires ravaged Australia.
However, Chad still managed to successfully defend the zoo despite what he described as “apocalyptic” conditions. They implemented a defense plan, in addition to Chad taking several smaller animals, including monkeys and red pandas, to his own house. Every animal survived thanks to Chad and his team's efforts.
Chad praised his team’s efforts:
The rescue effort was intense, and every animal had to be accounted for.
This is just the tip of the iceberg; this man will go to great lengths to ensure the animals' well-being.
This career story pairs well with the opposite zoo that cages visitors while animals roam freely.
Want the opposite kind of zoo danger? Read how Texas zookeepers escaped a gorilla enclosure trap.
Share this article:
