Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/989345
Zoo News m em b er maga zin e 02 BEHIND THE SCENES Many of the species we work with are perfectly adapted to live within a particular environment. SNAKES, crOcS, LIzArdS, IgUANAS ANd mOrE ››› DID YOU KNOW? THE SNAKES OF THE REPTILE HOUSE ARE OFTEN PUT THROUGH THEIR PACES, REGULARLY SWIMMING IN A SPECIALLY DESIGNED TANK FILLED WITH STRONG CURRENTS TO HELP IMPROVE THEIR FITNESS LEVELS AND KEEP THE SNAKES IN PEAK CONDITION. A SLITHErINg SUccESS Becoming a Reptile Keeper is a dream come true for Rory Keenan. Rory has been caring for reptiles for eight years and always knew he wanted to work with them. The Reptile House at Melbourne Zoo is home to 70 species, providing specialist conditions for each of the unique species depending on their natural habitat. Species such as the alpine amphibians experience huge fluctuations in temperature which mirrors seasonal change. "Reptile Keepers often become keen naturalists as we're often managing entire micro-habitats to ensure the animals in their care display natural behaviours," Keeper Rory says. "We are constantly checking exhibit temperatures, monitoring aquatic systems for temperature and water quality – it's extremely important to get these conditions perfect, especially when you're dealing with such unique species." The Reptile Keepers are also highly trained to handle all kinds of reptiles, from caring for a shy, tiny frog one minute to feeding a large crocodile the next. With each species, comes a unique set of husbandry learnings too. "One of the most interesting things I have learnt about reptiles and amphibians is how important environmental cues are for individual species." "Many of the species we work with are perfectly adapted to live within a particular environment. It's really fascinating." WANT TO KNOW mOrE? Head to zoo.org.au /zoo-news to watch the behind-the-scenes video. The reptile House at melbourne zoo is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians from around the world. from native venomous snakes, to the most endangered crocodile in the world as well as fascinating species such as the fijian crested Iguana or the gila monster, there is plenty to discover!