Maya Sherar
Jacksonville,FL
Summary
Seasoned Bird Keeper with background in aviculture and bird conservation. Experience encompasses husbandry, medical care, and observations of diverse species of birds and bats, as well as aardvarks, ensuring optimal health and well-being. Possess strong knowledge of avian behavior, nutrition requirements, enrichment techniques, and habitat maintenance. Demonstrated impact includes improved bird welfare standards, successful breeding programs, and effective public education initiatives about conservation efforts.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Bird Care Specialist
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Jacksonville, FL
05.2022 - Current
- Obtained position as secondary lead keeper of area overseeing Magellanic penguin colony, inca terns, aardvarks, hornbills, and owls.
- Perform daily care and maintenance tasks to ensure the health and safety of a variety of Bird and Bat species as well as aardvarks in compliance with USDA and AZA guidelines.
- Observe and monitor animal health and wellbeing through physical and visual examinations.
- Maintain records of animal care activities, diets, medical treatments, and behaviors.
- Develop enrichment activities for zoo inhabitants that encourage natural behaviors.
- Co head of bird department intern program
- Presented CARE application, and received approval for Vulpro funding.
Animal Hospital Keeper Intern
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Jacksonville, FL
02.2022 - 05.2022
- Responsible for the care of quarantine and hospitalized animals.
- Administered medications and treatments.
- Created enclosures with species specific lighting, propping, and enrichment.
- Collected specimens such as fecal samples and cultures for veterinary needs.
- Assisted with restraint of a variety of animals for exams and procedures
- Obtained experience using ZIMS database.
Interpretive Specialist
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Jacksonville, FL
04.2021 - 05.2022
- Facilitated animal encounters for educational programs.
- Completed natural history reports used to educate zoo guests.
- Led groups on tours of the zoo after hours including behind the scenes areas.
- Provided animal care and husbandry in the petting zoo.
- Facilitated feedings in animal areas including Lorikeet aviary, Giraffe overlook, and Stingray Bay.
- Trained new interpretive guides on daily procedures and animal handling.
Education
Associate of Arts - Sociology
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL2020
Skills
- Animal husbandry and observations
- Manual animal restraint
- Human and animal Safety
- Rabies vaccinated
- Problem-solving
- Educational tours
- Safety practices and regulations
Timeline
Bird Care Specialist
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
05.2022 - Current
Animal Hospital Keeper Intern
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
02.2022 - 05.2022
Interpretive Specialist
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
04.2021 - 05.2022
Associate of Arts - Sociology
University of North Florida
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