INFORMATION FOR PSU ANIMAL SCIENCES STUDENTS INTERESTED IN CAREERS WITH OR WILD ANIMALS:

The Animal Sciences degree provides a broad education in biology, physiology, nutrition and management of a wide variety of animals. For those interested in working with wildlife or exotic animal species, course work or a minor in Wildlife and Fisheries Science are good choices. Additional courses in Recreation, Park and Tourism Management may also be useful.

While knowledge of general animal care and management is important, an interest or specialty in nutrition, reproduction, health, or behavior will open more opportunities. The animal sciences curriculum focuses on domestic animals but keep in mind that species are more similar than they are different. For those interested in working with elephants or hoofstock, the nutrition and management of ruminants and post-gastric fermenters is particularly important. If you are interested in working with carnivores, an understanding of meat science and monogastric nutrition is key. Attention to behavior, training and learning principles is important in ensuring animal welfare in captive animal situations. Veterinarians who work in usually have advanced training (internships, residencies and specialty board certification) beyond the veterinary degree (www.aazv.org ). In addition to entertainment and recreation, most zoos today have education and conservation efforts as well. Travel and in-field investigations may be a part of the job description. Getting along with the public and interpreting animal behavior and management to people of all ages is an important part of most zoo jobs.

INTERNSHIPS and WORK EXPERIENCES:

Hands-on experience working with avian and exotic animals is invaluable. Many zoos offer volunteer and internship opportunities. Contact zoos directly to get more information or visit their websites and search for student opportunities and internships. Some zoos that Penn State Students have worked at include Hershey’s ZooAmerica, the , the National in , the Baltimore Zoo, the Smithsonian Zoo in Washington, DC, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the San Diego Zoo.

The American Zoo and Aquarium Association ( http://www.aza.org/JobListings/ ) carries a comprehensive listing of internships, summer work, and full time work.

The Animal Behavior Society (http://www.animalbehavior.org) website contains a wealth of information on all aspects of the animal behavior field, including applied animal behavior, and conservation behavior. It also includes a career guide and lists of behavior programs, as well as a running list of jobs and research opportunities, internships and volunteer positions.

Wildlife Rehabilitation involves caring for wildlife that is sick, injured, or orphaned until it can be returned to the wild. Centre Wildlife Care (http://www.wildaboutanimals.net) in State College is a well-run facility directed by Robyn Graboski that offers volunteer, internship and work-study opportunities for Penn State students.

Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center (http://www.outreach.psu.edu/shaverscreek) is an educational and recreational center run by Penn State. As part of their mission, they also run a raptor center that houses approximately 20 non- releasable birds of prey that are used in their educational programs. They are always looking for volunteers to help feed, clean, and handle the birds.

NAD 7/27/09