KEEPER FEATURE:
ANTONIO FERNANDEZ Where are you from originally? I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. For the past 21 years prior to moving to Memphis, I lived in Orlando. Where did you work before the Memphis Zoo? Before working in Memphis, I worked 20 years at SeaWorld Orlando as a bird keeper. The year prior to joining the Memphis Zoo, I worked at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in both the bird area and as a night keeper. What department do you work in? I work in the West Zone of the Zoo. I work at the Tropical Bird House, Penguin Rock, Pelicans, the Round Barn and the Farm. How long have you been a zookeeper? I have been a zookeeper for almost 25 years. Have you always wanted to work with animals? I grew up around animals. It wasn’t until 1996 during my third year of college that I decided to make zoo keeping my career. What is your favorite species to work with at the zoo? My favorite species to work with are all our hornbill species, the penguins and the animals at the farm. What do you like to do in your free time? During my free time I like spending time with my family and riding my bicycle. Do you have any pets? I have 2 pets at home, a 16-year-old tabby cat (Josie) and a 21-year-old Amazon parrot (Carlos).
What is your advice for anyone that wants to be a zookeeper? My advice for anyone wanting to be a zoo keeper would be to get as much education as possible, but also get hands on experience with animals. Many of the daily tasks we do are arduous and take a toll on your body over time. On the other hand, if you enjoy being around animals then zoo keeping can become a fulfilling and rewarding career.
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