Who's Who

WHO'S WHO AT THE ZOO Nicole Monell

By Morgan Purvis

Overseeing the health of over 2,000 animals is a feat, but we are lucky to have a dedicated team of keepers, veterinarians, and technicians that make it possible. They work tirelessly to ensure every animal, from the smallest reptile to largest mammal, receives the best nutrition and medical care.

Animal Health Supervisor Nicole Monell is a key member of the team, leading both the Animal Hospital and Animal Nutrition Center to make sure her staff is supported and getting the tools they need to succeed at their jobs. Some days you may find her coordinating deliveries of medical supplies and food, while others she may be jumping in to help prepare animal meals or assisting with an animal procedure.

Nicole has always been passionate about animal care since her early start as a kennel worker in a veterinary hospital. She worked her way up to become a vet tech and did that for 13 years before going back to college to get a degree in zoology. She graduated from Sante Fe Teaching Zoo with an associate degree in Zoo Animal Technology, before making her way to Jacksonville nine months later.

She started at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in 2008 as a keeper working with the African mammals. Her first love towards primates led to becoming a senior keeper and primary gorilla keeper within three years. She was part of the construction of African Forest, her favorite exhibit, and her most memorable experience was helping to hand-rear the infant female gorilla, Gandai.

“I will never forget when we introduced her to her surrogate mom, Bulera. I cried. It was such a relief to see Bulera accept her and care for her, and to know that all of our hard work paid off and she was going to be raised by a gorilla,” said Nicole about the experience of working with Gandai.

When the time came to become a supervisor, Nicole applied for and accepted the position of Animal Hospital Supervisor to have the best of both worlds—helping other employees succeed and continuing to work with animals. Perhaps no scenario better exemplifies her commitment than the positivity she spreads every day. In her spare time, Nicole explores Jacksonville with her daughter. She finds it rewarding seeing herself through her daughter’s eyes when she talks about her work adventures.