A teaching zoo is a zoo run by students and faculty that provides learning experiences for those studying zoology and related fields. It can also be used for research and breeding endangered animals, and is often affiliated with colleges and universities.
A teaching zoo is a functioning zoo that provides learning experiences for people studying zoology, zoology and related fields. Classically, members of the public are allowed to visit the teaching zoo, and the zoo is run similarly to other zoological parks, but the zoo’s staff is made up of students and faculty rather than professional zoologists. Zoo teaching can provide very valuable experiences for people in the zoological field and can also be used to showcase innovative research in everything from animal husbandry to new veterinary procedures.
While zoo education is built around the need to teach people about zoo and zoological practices, many are also used for research and the breeding of endangered animals in captivity. Research is a critical part of the field of zoology, providing more information about animal biology and contributing to the development of better animal husbandry techniques. Teaching zoos generally have staff and facilities to conduct research, whereas conventional zoos do not.
Captive breeding is also an important part of a teaching zoo, both because it contributes to the genetic diversity of endangered species, making more animals available, and because it provides a learning opportunity for future zookeepers. Working in a teaching zoo, students can learn about handling animals, how to handle a variety of real-world situations, and how to apply new techniques that may not be in widespread use. Students may also have the opportunity to meet leading figures in the field of zoology.
In addition to working in a teaching zoo, future keepers are also expected to undertake a large number of courses. Classroom education covers everything from safety around animals to animal nutrition, while the zoo experience allows people to practice procedures and work directly with the animals they are interested in. Zoo teaching is classically affiliated with colleges and universities that offer courses in zoology.
In addition to being affiliated with schools, some zoos are schools. Pioneers in the field of zoology developed teaching zoos and instructional programs that are used to establish zoological parks and breeding programs in nations with endangered animal populations, encouraging residents of those nations to become involved in preserving the natural environment. A teaching zoo can also be attached to a veterinary college, giving exotic veterinarians the chance to work directly with the animals they are learning to care for.
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