Our Programs

Begin Your Career in Animal Care, Conservation, and Wildlife Education

The Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program at Cat Tales Wildlife Academy is a comprehensive, hands-on program designed to prepare students for professional careers in animal care, wildlife management, and conservation. This transformative program equips students with the technical skills, scientific knowledge, and practical experience needed for success in zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation organizations, and governmental wildlife agencies.

Program Highlights

Animal Care Expertise: Master the techniques of animal husbandry, enrichment, and health management to ensure the welfare of animals in your care.

Wildlife Management & Conservation Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity, species preservation, and the vital role zoos and wildlife sanctuaries play in conservation.

Public Education & Conservation Messaging: Learn to effectively communicate conservation topics to the public, preparing you to act as an ambassador for wildlife and ecosystems needing protection.

Nonprofit Operations: Understand the financial and operational challenges of running a nonprofit facility, including animal care funding, community engagement, and public education programs.

Through a curriculum that emphasizes animal welfare, public education, and conservation strategies, the Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program at Cat Tales Wildlife Academy prepares aspiring professionals to excel in the dynamic fields of animal care and wildlife management.

The Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certificate of Achievement is awarded for completion of Part One: Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations and Part Two: Advanced Zookeeping & Wildlife Management

Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations – (weeks 1 thru 24)

The Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations course offers practical training in animal care, wildlife management, and facility operations, combining virtual learning with hands-on internship experiences. Students gain essential skills in animal husbandry, safety protocols, nutrition, record-keeping, behavior observation, and enrichment. The program also covers aspects of facility operations, public relations, fundraising, and exhibit maintenance to support conservation efforts. Training occurs at Cat Tales Wildlife Center, providing students with real-world experience in a functioning wildlife facility. Course subjects are taught through a blend of virtual and hands-on training, with a focus on meeting industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Advanced Zookeeping & Wildlife Management – (weeks 25 thru 48)

An in-depth program that builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in the Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations course, with a particular focus on developing leadership skills and exploring the essentials of Wildlife Management and Small Zoo Management. The program is designed to equip students with the expertise necessary to manage animal care and conservation facilities effectively, with practical applications beyond traditional zoo environments.

By providing a comprehensive understanding of the structure and operation of wildlife and people-centered facilities, students develop transferable skills in facility management, public engagement, and conservation advocacy—applicable across various animal-related and organizational settings.

Zookeeping Internships

Our internships are non-paid volunteer positions designed for those studying biology, zoology, and wildlife management. Internships are available on a limited basis. The internship requires 300 hours over 12 weeks, with a minimum of 24 hours weekly. Applicants unable to meet this commitment are encouraged to apply for volunteer positions.

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