Adelaide Starks
Delaware
Summary
Dedicated Wild Encounters Specialist with 3 years of hands-on experience in animal care, enrichment, and husbandry. Passionate about connecting diverse audiences with wildlife through engaging, memorable experiences that inspire curiosity, conservation, and lasting connections.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Wild Encounters Specialist
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
08.2023 - Current
- Engaged guests through interactive wildlife presentations and personalized encounters, enhancing public understanding and appreciation of animals.
- Supported AEV Tours and Encounter the Wild programs through efficient show setup and breakdown, ensuring smooth and safe guest experiences.
- Implemented positive reinforcement techniques during daily animal training and handling to promote trust and well-being.
- Participated in observational research to monitor animal well-being during late-night events such as Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Lantern Festival.
- Accurately prepared and distributed tailored diets for multiple ambassador species, maintaining consistency with nutritional requirements.
- Ensured animal health and public safety through daily sanitation of holding areas, travel crates, and shared spaces.
- Designed and implemented enrichment activities for multiple animal species, enhancing behavioral health, mental stimulation, and activity levels.
Zookeeper Intern - Animal Husbandry
Boonschoft Museum of Discovery
08.2022 - 12.2022
- Monitored animal health and behavior, reporting any concerns to senior staff and ZIMS.
- Assisted in daily animal care and feeding routines for diverse species.
- Educated visitors about animal species, habitats, and conservation efforts during Keeper talks.
- Supported enrichment activities to promote natural behaviors in captive animals.
- Intern Project: Developed an herb garden for enrichment use and authored a care guide detailing maintenance and harvest readiness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Biology
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH05.2023
Skills
- Public Speaking
- Advance Communication
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
Timeline
Wild Encounters Specialist
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
08.2023 - Current
Zookeeper Intern - Animal Husbandry
Boonschoft Museum of Discovery
08.2022 - 12.2022
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Biology
University of Dayton