Peoria Zoo Achieves AZA Accreditation: Behind the Scenes of Animal Care and Training
PEORIA—Last month, the Peoria Zoo received certification from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This honor places it among the top zoos and aquariums globally.
There are 134 AZA-accredited zoos around the world, and Peoria Zoo is one of them. The zoo’s staff shared what it takes to earn this accreditation.
Emy and Vivian, the giraffes at the zoo, are trained to feel comfortable in small spaces. Jonathan Rold, the Animal Curator, explains that trainers use a device called “the tamer” or “squeeze.” This equipment helps move the animals safely for health checks.
The keepers examine and weigh Emy and Vivian’s hooves regularly. The giraffes respond well to their training, motivated by food. Every training session is documented as part of the zoo’s standards for AZA accreditation.
Rold emphasizes the importance of observing the animals daily. “We track their health and well-being. This data helps us understand trends and compare with other zoos, improving our care for them,” he says.
What are the benefits of AZA accreditation for Peoria Zoo and its community?
Title: Peoria Zoo Achieves Prestigious AZA Accreditation: An Interview with Animal Curator Jonathan Rold
Introduction:
Peoria Zoo has recently earned certification from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), marking a significant milestone and placing it among the elite zoos worldwide. We sat down with Jonathan Rold, the Animal Curator at Peoria Zoo, to discuss what this achievement means for the zoo, its animals, and the community.
Interview:
News Directory 3: Congratulations on receiving AZA accreditation! Can you explain what this certification means for Peoria Zoo?
Jonathan Rold: Thank you! Achieving AZA accreditation signifies that Peoria Zoo meets the highest standards of animal care and welfare, conservation, and education. It places us among the top 134 zoos globally, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff. This recognition helps enhance our credibility and fosters public trust in the care we provide to our animals.
News Directory 3: What processes did the zoo undergo to achieve this accreditation?
Jonathan Rold: It’s a comprehensive process that involves rigorous evaluations and inspections across various facets of zoo operations. We had to demonstrate best practices in animal care, safety protocols, and educational programming. Our training programs for the animals, like those for our giraffes Emy and Vivian, are documented to ensure we meet AZA standards. The process requires a strong commitment from all team members.
News Directory 3: Speaking of training, can you elaborate on the methods used to train Emy and Vivian, the giraffes?
Jonathan Rold: Absolutely! We use a device known as “the tamer” or “squeeze” during training. It helps us safely move giraffes for health checks without causing stress. Regular examinations and weighing of Emy and Vivian’s hooves are crucial for their well-being. They respond positively to training cues, primarily motivated by food, which helps us assess their health effectively.
News Directory 3: Daily observation seems vital in your operations. Can you explain why it’s critical?
Jonathan Rold: Daily observation is essential as it allows us to monitor the animals’ health and behaviors closely. We track their conditions using documented data, which helps identify trends and compare our outcomes with other accredited zoos. This data-driven approach enables us to enhance our care practices continually.
News Directory 3: Let’s talk about Lizzie, the lion. How is her training different from that of the giraffes?
Jonathan Rold: Lizzie’s training focuses on building trust between her and her keeper, Regan Slonecker. We utilize command training to facilitate health assessments. For instance, Lizzie has learned to stand on a fence for visibility and open her mouth for dental evaluations. Such interactions are fundamental in strengthening their bond, which directly influences the lion’s overall health and well-being.
News Directory 3: You mentioned the mental stimulation that training provides. Can you expand on this?
Jonathan Rold: Training is not just about health checks; it enriches the animals’ lives significantly. It engages them mentally, helping to reduce stress and boredom. By incorporating these sessions into their routine, we ensure that they remain active and stimulated, which is beneficial for their psychological health.
Conclusion:
The Peoria Zoo’s AZA accreditation represents a significant achievement in animal care and dedicated conservation efforts. With the guidance and expertise of professionals like Jonathan Rold, the zoo continues to enhance its commitment to the welfare of its animals and the education of its visitors.
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The zoo employs seven keepers who interact with different animal groups daily. Lizzie the lion undergoes training to build trust with her keeper. Regan Slonecker, an animal keeper, notes that Lizzie learns commands that allow her health to be assessed safely.
For example, Lizzie is trained to stand on a fence so her belly can be seen and to open her mouth for a dental check. The bond between the animals and their keepers is vital for the animals’ health.
Rold adds that these training sessions benefit the animals’ lives. “It allows us to see their condition. It also provides mental stimulation for them,” he explains.
To learn more about the Peoria Zoo and its animals, visit 25News Now for updates and live broadcasts.