Become a trainer for a day behind the scenes of the World of Wild Theater and the Fantastic Flights presentation, learning about positive reinforcement training and zoo enrichment programmes.
Zoo Atlanta is running its Trainer for a Day program at the World of Wild Theater, presented by Georgia Natural Gas, on Sunday, November 8, and again on Sunday, December 13. For a few hours, you step behind the scenes and take part in the Fantastic Flights presentation, working alongside the Ambassador Animals Team.
The morning is built around positive reinforcement training, so you'll see firsthand how the zoo uses it to care for the birds and to connect them with the visitors who come to see them. You'll also get a look at the zoo's enrichment programs—the activities and changes they make to the animals' environment to keep them engaged and healthy. It's a chance to see the work that goes into the public shows from the other side of the railing.
Fair warning: this is a hands-on experience, and the "hands-on" part includes the less glamorous side of animal care. Raking, sweeping, hosing, scrubbing, and shoveling are all on the agenda, and you'll be expected to work in all weather conditions, lift up to 30 pounds, and stay on your feet for up to four hours. It's a real day's work, not just a tour. One thing to keep in mind is that all participation in the Keeper for a Day programs is voluntary for the animals—they're only involved if they want to be.
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Each session takes a maximum of two people, so it stays small. You'll need to register at least one week in advance to get a spot. Both dates run from 8 AM to 12:30 PM, and the cost is $335.
