Books about Animal Careers

These books were recommended by fellow zookeepers. Although some of these books are quite old the information can still be valuable. Our field has changed quite a bit but the behavior of the animals has not. Plus they are just one heck of an interesting read. You may find that some of these books are out of print. Often used copies are still available on the web through sites such as Amazon.com. This list is just a beginning; more will be added as it is compiled.

Careers for Animal Lovers & Other Zoological Types
Louise Miller

McGraw-Hill; 2 edition (September 1, 2000)

This book lets career explorers look at the job market through the unique lens of their own interests. The book reveals dozens of ways to pursue a passion and make a living--including many little-known but delightful careers that will surprise readers.

Ethics on the Ark: Zoos, Animal Welfare and Wildlife Conservation

Bryan G. Norton, Michael Hutchins, Elizabeth F. Stevens, Terry L. Maple

1995, Smithsonian Institution Press

Zoo professionals, activists, conservation biologists, and philosophers present perspectives on the future of zoos and aquariums, the treatment of animals in captivity, and the question of whether the individual, the species, or the ecosystem is the most important focus in conservation efforts, in papers from a March 1992 conference. Other subjects include captive breeding, wild populations, reintroduction, the use of animals in research, and public relations. Includes guidelines designed at the conference. No index. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Ore. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition

Management of Wild Mammals in Captivity

Lee Saunders Crandall

1964, University of Chicago Press

Out of print

Maybe You Belong in a Zoo!: Zoo and Aquarium Careers
Karen O'Connor

Putnam Pub Group (J); (November 1, 1982)

Introduces zoo and aquarium careers through interviews with administrators, curators and keepers, trainers and performers, veterinarians, animal dentists, and support personnel including groundskeepers, photographers, and tour guides.

Opportunities in Animal and Pet Care Careers
Mary Price Lee, Richard Lee

McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books; 1 edition (March 31, 2001)

Offers job seekers essential information about a variety of careers for animal lovers. The book includes training and education requirements, salary statistics, and professional and Internet resources.

Opportunities in Zoos and Aquariums

Blythe Camenson

McGraw-Hill/Contemporary; (October 1, 1997)

Presents current educational & professional requirements for diverse careers with animals, discusses related jobs in wildlife rehab, public relations, & education, salaries, & information on professional associations. Paper. DLC: Zoos Vocational guidance.

Working With Wildlife: A Guide to Careers in the Animal World (Science, College and Career Guidance)
Thane Maynard

Franklin Watts; (March 1, 2000)

Grade 7 Up-Anyone investigating the myriad options in wildlife careers will find sound advice and inspiration in this guide. Maynard provides insights into veterinary medicine; zoo and aquarium careers; wildlife research, education, and conservation; and jobs in the communication and creative arts.

Zoo Careers
William, Bridges

William Morrow; (September 1971)

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Please contact Susan Chan for more information about a career in zoo keeping, or contact your local zoological park and/or aquarium.