As noted in our previous blog post, we are very much pro-monkey. We can learn so much from them and our other friends in the animal kingdom. We are also big fans of zookeepers because they are amazing. They play a critical role in ensuring the health and well-being of animals in captivity. They provide appropriate, nutritious food, keep the animals mentally stimulated, and deal gracefully with unsupervised toddlers eager to share Dippin’ Dots with the wallabies.

Zookeepers typically have college degrees and years of experience through volunteering and internships. They are physically strong, observant, hardworking, and patient and are great communicators and advocates for the animals. Most importantly, they feel an abiding passion for the animals under their stewardship.

Given the demands of the job, the importance of their work, and the requisite education and experience, zookeepers must make some real money, right? Well, the average starting salaries are around $38,000 a year. Experienced zookeepers make around $51,000 a........

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