In the heart of Germany, the Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum offers a unique glimpse into the world of zoo careers. This institution is not just a place for animal lovers to visit but also a training ground for aspiring zoo keepers and administrators. Currently, the zoo is training two individuals in administration and four in zoo care, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of what it means to work in this field.

The Path to Becoming a Zoo Keeper

For many, becoming a zoo keeper is a childhood dream, much like aspiring to be a police officer or a firefighter in the United States. Paul Meisner, a 26-year-old trainee in his second year at Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum, shares his journey and insights into this rewarding yet challenging career.

“My name is Paul Meisner, I am 26 years old and I live in Essen. My father comes from Bochum and I am a big VFlfan, so I have a strong connection to the city. Even as a child I was often here in the zoo. For many, it used to be a dream of becoming a police officer or a fireman, but I always wanted to become a zookeeper. At that time I didn’t know exactly why, except that I liked animals. It is clear that of course a lot more belongs to the job. Training as a pet career is very popular and it is difficult to get a place. From the eighth grade, I have applied nationwide and received cancellations. During a three -year training at the veterinarian, I sent a last application to the Bochum zoo and actually received a promise and am now very happy here.”

The Training Process

The training program at Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum is rigorous and comprehensive, lasting three years. Trainees are introduced to a variety of animal species, including mammals, reptiles, fish, amphibians, and insects. The program is divided into outdoor and indoor areas, with trainees spending two years outside and one year inside. However, Meisner’s interests in aquaristics and terrarism led to a unique training schedule.

“Training as a pet career lasts three years. We have two areas here in the Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum: the outdoor and indoor area. Usually you are outside for two years and a year inside. For me it is exactly the other way around, since my interests are strongest in aquaristics and terrarism, which is taken into account here. In the two areas we get to know everything: mammals, reptiles, fish, amphibians, insects.”

A Day in the Life of a Trainee

Meisner’s daily routine involves a variety of tasks, from feeding and cleaning to ensuring the well-being of the animals. His current focus is on the South America area, which includes birds, prairie dogs, meerkats, and flamingos. The routine is meticulously planned to ensure that each animal receives the care it needs.

“My working day looks in such a way that in the morning you look at who is used in which area. We have a South America area, a Northern Europe area and an Asia area, each with different routines. With the South America routine, which I am currently completing, I first pack my car with the feed prepared at the lecture and go my round. There is no fixed route, but you can see individually how best to divide them up. I go to the aviary first, make the birds clean, then to the prairie dogs and then to the meerkats. Then we still have the so -called bee house, in which there are currently small terrariums for school purposes. Then it goes to the flamingos and our nose bears. Because cleaning this system is most time -consuming, I make it at the end so that I can clean everything in peace, feed the animals and see whether the system is in order.”

Beyond Animal Care

Meisner’s training also includes block lessons at a vocational school in Düsseldorf every third week and a three-month stint at the Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen. This additional training provides exposure to predators like lions, tigers, and bears, which are not part of the Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum’s collection.

“In addition to practice, we have block lessons in the vocational school in Düsseldorf every third week. Soon I will also spend three months in the Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen. There I get a training aspect with the predators such as lions, tigers and bears that I don’t have here in Bochum. But I already know that these are not the animals with which I see myself later.”

The Importance of People Skills

One of the surprising aspects of the training is the emphasis on people skills. Zoo keepers are not just caretakers of animals; they also play a crucial role in educating visitors and promoting species conservation. Meisner highlights the importance of teamwork and communication in this role.

“I was surprised at the training – apart from the whole technology that is behind the scenes and which we also look after – the fact that you also have a lot to do with people in addition to working with animals. Team spirit is required when dealing with colleagues. It is said that the basic principle of a zoo or zoo is on four pillars: species protection, science and research, leisure and education. The training not only includes animal care, you also form people. I come into contact with visitors and explain things that they didn’t know before. So I convey knowledge about the animals every day. This also focuses on social skills: it is important that you have a lot of responsibility, and a high degree of independence is required, which is also growing again in training. You have to be an all -rounder and be able to improvise well because there is no day like the other.”

Future Prospects and Challenges

Meisner’s experience at Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum has been enriching, and he plans to continue his career there after completing his training. The family atmosphere and the opportunity to work with a variety of animals have made his experience particularly rewarding. However, the field of zoo keeping is not without its challenges. The demand for skilled zoo keepers is high, and the competition for training spots is fierce.

In the United States, the field of zoo keeping is equally demanding. Institutions like the San Diego Zoo and the Bronx Zoo offer similar training programs, emphasizing the importance of animal care, conservation, and public education. The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) plays a crucial role in providing resources and support for aspiring zoo keepers, much like the German Zoo and Aquarium Association (VdZ).

Conclusion

Paul Meisner’s journey at Tierpark + Fossilium Bochum offers a valuable insight into the world of zoo keeping. His experience highlights the importance of passion, dedication, and a well-rounded skill set in this rewarding yet challenging career. For those considering a career in zoo keeping, Meisner’s story serves as a testament to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.