Who's Who at the Zoo

WHO'S WHO AT THE ZOO Employee Reflections

As we reflect on the past and look forward to the future, we asked some of our long-term employees their favorite things about working here and what they look forward to the most.

Video: Craig Miller, Curator of Mammals

Craig also appears on page 29 and page 51.

Peggy Lehew, Lead Guest Service Associate

How long have you worked here?

I have worked at the Zoo for 21 and a half years.

What positions have you held here?

I started off as a train driver and then was promoted to Lead Guest Service Associate.

What got you started in your career?

I needed a job and was told about a job fair at the Zoo.

What is your favorite plant or animal fact?

I have too many favorites to pick just one! I would have to say though, if I only had time during a visit to see one plant and one animal, I would want to see Bird of Paradise and Chimpanzee.

What makes this park special to you?

I love interacting with the guests and associates. I have made some wonderful friends here!

What upcoming changes make you most excited?

The upcoming construction on the front entrance and finishing Asia. I love Orangutans and can't wait till we finally get them!

What is your favorite memory of working here?

The Chimpanzees when we had them. Every day, I would be sure to visit Jackson, the only male chimp. See a picture of Jackson on page 38.

If you could turn into an animal, what would it be? Why?

I would want to be a bear. I enjoy eating and sleeping. If I was a bear, I could eat all Spring and Summer, then hibernate all Fall and Winter.

If you could bring back an extinct species, what would it be? Why?

I can’t think of an extinct species, but if I can help an endangered species, I’d choose Okapi. I think they are cool looking, and I have been kissed on the head by one.

Name an animal species you haven’t seen in person that you wish you could.

I believe I have seen them all. I have visited several Zoos across the US. To name a couple, I've seen a Giant Panda at Zoo Atlanta and I have seen an African Wild Dog at Columbus Zoo.

What soundtrack plays in your head while you work?

The soundtrack that plays at the carousel. Lol, I can hear it throughout my work area.

Jennifer Blondin, Exhibit Guide

How long have you worked here?

15 years

What positions have you held here?

I have been an Education Exhibit Guide and have helped with Camp and Homeschool programs as needed.

What got you started in your career?

My previous job had been phased out, so I took a temporary job and prayed for the next step. This was the answer.

What is your favorite plant or animal?

I love seeing Giraffes when they sleep curl their necks around and rest their chins on their backside.

What makes this park special to you?

It is a beautiful garden setting with amazing animals and guests who are excited to be here.

What upcoming changes make you most excited?

I look forward to the new entrance pavilion, with Manatee River, as you enter the Zoo.

What is your favorite memory of working here?

I have two. First, I enjoy watching animal training, Gorillas, Tigers and Stingrays; it never gets old. Second, I am excited when I see coworkers, who have worked very hard, achieve the positions they have been striving for.

If you could turn into an animal, what would it be? Why?

A bird because how much fun would it be to fly.

If you could bring back an extinct species what would it be? Why?

A Xerces Blue Butterfly, they are beautiful.

Name an animal species you haven’t seen in person that you wish you could.

I would love to see a Fennec Fox.

What soundtrack plays in your head while you work?

I love music, especially Enya, Lord of the Rings, but when working nothing is better than just sounds from outside with nothing else added.