Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a facility dedicated to rescuing abused, abandoned and unwanted big cats. The refuge, located in NW Arkansas, is seeking a full-time, 6-months Intern Keeper. The refuge is a non-profit facility of over 100 rescued exotic cats. Work is often physically demanding. Applicants must be self-motivated, with high desire to provide the best care available to animals. Applicants must also be observant and able to keep detailed records. The ability to work in a team environment or independently is important. A degree in Zoology, Biology or related field is preferred, but experience with exotic animal husbandry may be considered. 18 positions are opened each internship. Internships run every six (6) months. If you are looking for a full-time internship working around big cats you just may have found it.

Work in a Captive Animal Institution - Responsible for the daily care of Tigers, Lions, Cougars, Black Bears, Grizzly Bear, Leopards, African Servals, Bobcats, Rhesus Macaque, and Hoof stock. Duties include animal husbandry, enrichment, record keeping of animal behavior, educational public tours, and customer service.
Prepare and Present Information to the Public - Responsible for greeting customers and guided tours throughout the facility. Educate the public about each resident species and the direction of the facility's future.
Prepare and Maintain Animal Housing - Responsible for maintaining animal and customer safety through daily exhibit checks. This includes routine landscaping, clearing habitats of underbrush, and providing animal enrichment.
Prepare Diets and Monitor Feeding - Maintain food quality and hygiene standards of produce and meat. Prepare diets and monitor every animal's intake. Feed all animals and observe quantities of waste for diet recommendations. Record weight loss or gain for each animal.
Monitor and Maintain Animal Health - Maintain daily records of animal defecation and any loss of appetite to identify any abnormal behavior and signs of illness. Administer daily medications. Prepare and maintain quarantine areas for recent rescues.
