Keeper for a Day
Keeper for a Day is an exciting program at Zoo Atlanta that gives teens and adults a firsthand look at working in a zoo. Come spend the day helping zookeepers with their daily routines of food preparation, cleaning and animal care. Don’t miss your chance to bathe an elephant, meet a lion, or feed an otter! Whether you're considering a career in zookeeping or have always wanted to spend some time with your favorite animal, this exclusive behind-the-scenes program is a once in a lifetime experience.
Participants can choose from two program options:
- Elephants & Warthogs
Spend the day with two of the Zoo’s most unique residents – elephants and warthogs. Program runs from 8:00 am – 3:30 pm.
Upcoming dates: October 2, October 23, November 13, December 11 - Australia & Carnivores
Hang out all morning in the Zoo’s Australian Outback. Then venture over to spend some time with the Zoo’s carnivores in the afternoon. Program runs from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Upcoming dates: September 18, October 16, November 6, December 4
Program Information
- Programs are offered on Saturdays year-round.
- Registration fee: $225 for members, $275 for non-members. Registration fee includes Keeper for a Day behind-the-scenes activities, Zoo admission, lunch, t-shirt, photo, and career information.
- Participants must be at least 14 years old. Participants must also be able to climb a flight of stairs, able to lift up to 25 pounds repeatedly, and willing to work in all weather conditions.
- Registration is required at least one week in advance of program date and full payment must be made at time of registration.
- Due to the hands-on nature of this program, group size is limited to 2 participants per session.
- Read All About Keeper for a Day for more information on what to wear, what to bring, and more.
- Please note: programs involving the Zoo’s animal collection are subject to change; therefore, we cannot guarantee you will work with specific animals during the program.
Register online for Keeper for a Day.
For more information, call 404.624.WILD or email education@zooatlanta.org.
Keeper for a Day is a unique opportunity to experience a zookeeper’s day. Here is some more information about the program:
What should I wear?
During the program, you will be inside and outside. Please dress comfortably for the day and appropriately for the weather. Programs will take place rain or shine. A t-shirt and nametag will be provided for participants to wear during the program. Participants must wear both of these items during the program. Participants will have time to change before the start of the program. Participants can wear a long-sleeved shirt under the t-shirt if the outside temperature is cold.
Please wear khakis or jeans. Shorts are allowed during summer months. Wear comfortable shoes that are close-toed such as tennis shoes or work boots. Old shoes are best since you will get dirty. Flip-flops and sandals should not be worn, as they will prevent participants from entering the behind-the-scenes areas that are part of the program.
What do I need to bring?
Plan to bring a water bottle and a morning snack if you will get hungry before lunch. Lunch will be provided as part of the program. Participants with dietary restrictions are encouraged to bring their own lunch. Also wear or bring bug spray and sunscreen in the spring, summer, and fall months.
May I bring a camera?
To insure the safety of all involved, camera usage is prohibited during the Keeper for a Day program. However, at the end of the program you will receive a complimentary photo of your experience. Additional photos can be ordered for a fee at that time.
What should I know about working with the animals?
Although our animals are trained to work with their human caregivers, they are still wild animals and their behavior is unpredictable. It is important that you pay close attention to the guidance and instructions of Zoo staff. Never enter any animal area without direction from the keeper. Always wait for instructions and authorization from the keepers before approaching any of the animals while participating in training and feeding sessions. You must avoid touching the animals unless instructed to touch by the keepers. In addition, please note that participants who work around carnivores will be exposed to raw meat.
Are there any restrictions to participating?
Due to animal health regulations, participants that were out of the country 7 days prior to the program will not be able to participate. Participants are expected to follow all rules and instructions of Zoo staff. Anyone not following instructions may be asked to leave the program without refund. Please note that behind-the-scenes areas are not handicapped accessible.
If you have questions, please call 404-624.WILD or email education@zooatlanta.org.
