The Houston Zoo offers a diverse range of internship opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing careers in zoology, conservation, animal science, and veterinary medicine. These internships provide hands-on experience, exposure to various aspects of zoo operations, and the chance to contribute to the Zoo’s mission of connecting communities with animals and inspiring action to save wildlife.
Breeding Programs at the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is actively involved in captive breeding programs for several endangered species, and interns play a crucial role in these efforts.
Attwater’s Prairie Chicken
The Houston Zoo is part of a captive breeding program for the critically endangered Attwater’s prairie chicken, a species of grouse found only in the coastal prairies of Texas. Interns in this program are responsible for administering medical treatments, recording observations, and discussing treatment plans with veterinarians.
Houston Toads
The Zoo also has a breeding program for the critically endangered Houston toad, focusing on research and conservation efforts. Interns in this program work on projects such as developing effective blood collection techniques and evaluating kidney function in these small amphibians.
Conservation Efforts at the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is committed to reducing threats to species in the wild, and interns contribute to these efforts in various ways.
Wildlife-Saving Actions
The Zoo focuses on initiatives such as reducing plastic pollution, promoting sustainable seafood, replanting wildlife habitats, recycling electronics, and creating wildlife-friendly spaces. Interns support these efforts by ensuring exceptional animal care and contributing to the Zoo’s operations.
Conservation Programs
The Houston Zoo hosts veterinary students as part of its Summer Conservation Intern program, where they work closely with veterinary and animal care teams to support conservation programs. Interns gain firsthand experience in research, animal care, and treatment, and participate in various aspects of zoo life.
The Houston Zoo’s Role in Protecting Wildlife
The Houston Zoo aims to be a global leader in conservation, and interns play a crucial role in supporting this mission.
Global Leader in Conservation
The Zoo’s goal is to connect communities with animals and inspire action to save wildlife. Interns contribute to this mission by participating in the Zoo’s conservation efforts and gaining valuable experience in the field.
Staff Contributions
Every member of the Zoo’s staff, including interns, makes a significant impact on protecting animals in the wild. By ensuring exceptional animal care and supporting the Zoo’s operations, interns help protect species like lions, sharks, cranes, and toads in their natural habitats.
Internship Details
The Houston Zoo internship program offers the following details:
- Duration: The internship typically lasts for 10 weeks during the summer.
- Academic Credit: Interns can earn up to 6 hours of upper-level elective credit by registering with Dr. Frankino for BIOL 3396 & 4396.
- Core Values: The internship program aligns with the Zoo’s core values, including Inclusion, Integrity, Excellence, Unity, and Stewardship, which are embedded in the learning experiences and assignments.
Contact Information
For more information about the Houston Zoo internship program, you can reach out to the following contacts:
- Dr. Gilly Taylor: For questions about the internship, contact Dr. Gilly Taylor at [email protected].
- Phillicea Thomas: For questions about the application and technical support, contact Phillicea Thomas at [email protected].
- Dr. W. Anthony Frankino: For questions about academic credit, contact Dr. W. Anthony Frankino at [email protected].
Additional Resources
- Houston Zoo Website: For more information on the Houston Zoo and its internship programs, visit their website at www.houstonzoo.org.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteering with the Zoo is a great way to gain experience in the field and interact with professionals in the industry.
References:
– Houston Zoo Internship | Dayforce Jobs
– Houston Zoo Paid Summer Internship | Frankino Careers – The Houston Zoo
– What Do Veterinary Interns Do? – The Houston Zoo
– Meet our Summer Conservation Interns – The Houston Zoo