Zoo Advice needed as I have no idea how to go about it...

[SludgeMunkey]

I have a bit of a zoo issue I could use some advice on.

I recently made a standing offer (a free donation) of some N. kaiseri to my local zoo's amphibian conservation program. They were very excited, but felt they were currently overloaded and short of manpower and held off at this time.

I understand this completely, but got to thinking...if they are short of bodies for their conservation program, should I volunteer to help?

I live and work very close to their facility. My schedule would easily permit me availability to help out.

I'm unable to determine if they even have a non-scholar volunteer program and am a bit afraid to ask my contact.

Any suggestions? Obviously, Johnny O. Farnen- Industrial MacGuyver, is not a suitable resume for such a task. How should I go about presenting my self-educated amphibian skills or should I even bother?

I feel it would be an excellent way to gain experience, learn the ropes, and help them out too. Or am I misguided in my thinking?

My wife says I should put my money where my mouth is and step up to help out a real conservation effort instead of being a "rogue basement dweller and grouchy hillbilly" (her words).

I'm afraid I'll come off to the zoo as some crazy zealot that has some luck rather than someone who is truly interested in species conservation.

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

 

[Greatwtehunter]

Ask them! What's the worst that could happen? They say no.

I volunteered at my little local, rinky dink zoo for years just by asking.

 

[John]

Can't hurt to ask unless you need them for something.

 

[SludgeMunkey]

I just figure they could use an extra set of hands. I don't need anything from them. I was actually kind of surprised that they encouraged serious hobbyists to continue working with species they can't for whatever reason. That bit of the email sort of inspired me to perhaps offer to volunteer some of my time.

I guess I am nuking this as usual. You guys are right- it can't hurt to ask.

 

[Otterwoman]

Who knows, it could lead to an all new career.

 

[Bellabelloo]

Point them to this forum. What more could they possibly need to see just how fantastic you would be for them..

 

[Azhael]

Perhaps showing them pictures of your lair and the achievements with your animals would help. They may realize you are indeed a knowledgeable keeper and breeder if they see what you have achieved. If they were willing to do a visit in person, all the better. You can flash them with lots of babies and species and scientific names xD

 

[Jennewt]

In my experience, every zoo is eager for volunteers. You may have to prove yourself before they let you work with animals though. In other words, they may start you out doing other kinds of chores until they see that you are serious and reliable. Working with animals at a professional facility is great way to learn new things, so I'd encourage you to do it if you possibly can.

I somewhat disagree with Azhael about showing them your lair. I think you'll have no problem convincing them of your interest in amphibians, which is good, but don't go overboard telling them about what you do at home. Honestly, I know a lot of conservation-minded biologists who really hate hobbyists. Get to know people first.

 

[Azhael]

Uh.....good point, Jen. I know a couple of those...the face on one of them when i said i kept caudates at home was a poem....

 

[Hayden]

If they say no, you can see if they offer classes. I'm taking a docent class next summer, even though I can school them all in my amphib knowledge. It just shows them that you're serious, and shows them what you really know.

 

[eyrops]

I wouldn't have taken you for a shy person! I'm a retired biologist who casts metal for fun (and not so much profit). Do you think they would laugh at me at your industrial facility?

Seriously, they would be nuts not to accept your help.

-Steve Morse